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If you have elderly loved ones in your life, it’s important that you do what you can to help them as much as they need. All too often, we are in the habit of seeing these people as the care taker and authority figures, because they tend to be the people who have raised us and supported us from childhood to adulthood and beyond. We see them as independent and protectors. But as they grow older, the tables can turn and they actually begin to depend on us for help, support and guidance during their older years. This is particularly true during a worldwide pandemic. The past couple of years have been particularly difficult for older generations and they need our help more than ever. So, what can you do to make sure that the elderly individuals in your life are receiving the care and attention they need? Here are a few suggestions that should help you along the way!
Check In
The first – and perhaps the easiest – thing you can do to help your elderly loved ones is simply checking in on them. Many older people end up feeling quite isolated, as friends may have passed away and they might not be able to get out and about as easily and independently as they might once have. Make sure to visit them on a regular basis. Not only will this provide them with company, helping to tackle loneliness, but it also gives you an opportunity to make sure that their house is in good condition and that they aren’t struggling with basic tasks or routines. Taking time isn’t too hard. No matter how hectic your schedule may be, there should be time to visit. If not, give them a call, a video call and make time for a chat here and there. This isn’t much effort but can make all the difference!
Improve Their Living Situation
It’s easy to forget that old age can completely change people’s abilities. While parents or grandparents might have been completely strong and independent during their youth, it’s important to remember that as people age, they can become less mobile and day to day tasks can become a challenge. You need to make sure that your loved one is coping well in their living situation and that they can do everything they need to for a comfortable and healthy life. Start out by talking to them about this. Ask them if they’re having difficulty doing anything at home. See if they need any help, support or assistance. Remember that many edlerly people are also fiercely independent or worry about burdening or inconveniencing people, so may not be entirely honest. Visit them in their own home can give you an idea of how they’re getting on, as you may notice indicators that certain tasks aren’t getting done, or may notice struggles or difficulties your elderly loved one is having while you’re there. Having a good idea of what assistance or support they need can help you to make the necessary changes to lead a good quality life. Here are some options that might suit.
Home Adaptations
If your loved one is having difficulties with specific parts of living at home, you could make some adaptations to the space that will make these problems easier to overcome. For example, you might find that fitting a stairlift can make getting up and down the stairs easier. Alternatively, a walk-in bath could make bathing easier and more accessible. Hand rails in key locations, such as next to the toilet or seats can make getting up and down easier and less daunting.
Moving Home
If there are multiple access issues in your loved one’s home, you may want to consider helping them to move. Many elderly people find that a bungalow is a much easier and more suitable form of housing as they grow older and less mobile. They also tend to be in communities of older people who they can build friendships with.
Moving Into a Care Home
Sometimes, you may find that your loved one needs further help on a day to day basis, perhaps with cooking, taking medication or issues with memory loss. This is where moving to a care home should be a serious consideration. There are plenty of homes out there, each suited to different individuals with different needs. Some supply in-house medical professionals, memory care and more. Of course, unless they are at risk by staying in their own home alone, this needs to be something your loved one agrees too. Make sure to discuss this option with them. Some elderly people would love to move into a care home for the sense of community and the ease. Others don’t like the idea and would much rather stay in the homes they’re used to. If your loved one does want to move into a care home, you should take time to browse the different options available, visit with your elderly loved one and give them choice in the matter.
In-Home Care
If your loved one really doesn’t want to move, another option is in-home care, which sees medics, professionals and other support staff visit them in the comfort of their own home. The best in home care services will depend on your loved one’s needs. Some will simply need a little assistance with cleaning, in which case, professional cleaners will do the job. Some will just need help keeping on top of the garden, in which case, a standard gardener will be fine. However, some elderly individuals will need more specialist care, such as medical assistance. This will require more specific recruitment, as you’ll have to check different options and ensure that the people you’re using are fully qualified, well trained and checked.
The best way for you to care for your loved one will depend on your capacity and their needs. But hopefully, some of the suggestions above should help you to get them on the best path!
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The changes that accompany aging can be especially challenging to seniors and their caregivers, who must work together to ensure the older adult maintains independence and quality of life. Thanks for sharing these awesome ideas