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.