A Guide to Assisting Seniors in Maintaining Independence
Ensure
they are social
Social interaction is a crucial aspect of senior independence. By
staying connected to others, seniors can feel less isolated and maintain a
positive outlook on life. Let them continue going to church, visiting
relatives, or reconnecting with old friends. If they are unable to attend these
events, consider hosting social gatherings in your home or finding community
activities they can participate in. The key is to make sure they are engaging
with others and enjoying life to the fullest.
Encourage
exercising
If your senior spends a lot of time at home, it's important to
encourage them to stay active and live a healthy lifestyle. Physical activity
can strengthen their overall health and lowers the chances of chronic diseases.
You can start by offering to accompany them on morning and evening walks or
runs to act as motivation. Other exercises that seniors can enjoy include
hiking, swimming, and jogging. This will not only provide them with the
physical benefits of exercise, but it also gives them the opportunity to enjoy
the fresh air and get outside for a change of scenery.
If you don’t have the time to exercise with them, hiring a home
care aide available here can be of
help. The professionals can work with elderly to ensure that they are getting
the care they need. Besides helping with exercises, home care providers can
help the elderly with things like running errands and medication reminders
among others.
Prioritize
safety
When you're helping your seniors to be independent, make sure
their environment is set up for success. This means removing any obstacles that
could pose a tripping hazard, such as chairs or other objects in their walking
path. Carpets around the house also need to be non-slippery to prevent falls.
Additionally, the bathroom should be safe for them to use, with grab bars and
non-slip mats in place to reduce the risk of accidents. This way, the senior
will feel confident and secure in their environment.
Set
goals
Work with your loved one to set achievable goals based on their
individual needs and abilities. For example, if they have been forgetting
things and one day they remembered something, acknowledge this as a positive
step forward. If they walk a little farther each day, give them a pat on the
back. Over time, you'll see them grow in confidence and feel proud of their
accomplishments.
Bottom
line
Usually, seniors who are more independent tend to live a better
life. It is therefore important to be there for them as much as you can. If you need extra help, don’t hesitate to
call a home caregiver.
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