Numerous studies indicate older adults remain healthier and happier when they’re able to stay in their own homes. Approximately 90 percent of seniors prefer aging in place and don’t want to make major lifestyle changes that require moving. The following tips can help you promote safety without making your loved one feel incapable.
Modify the Home
Don’t wait until a tragedy strikes before making your loved one’s home safe. Ensure clear pathways by eliminating clutter inside the home as well as outside along frequently traveled routes. Decreased vision is an issue for many seniors, and better lighting ensures your loved one can walk safely throughout the home at any time of day or night. Add nightlights in bedrooms and hallways so nighttime trips to the bathroom are illuminated. Miniature lights on stairways are another option. Install grab bars, shower chairs, and other safety features in the bathroom to prevent trips and falls. Consider getting some type of emergency alert system your loved one can use in the event of an accident or illness.
Living independently is important for seniors who want to maintain a high quality of life. For some, this simply means receiving help with tasks that have become more challenging to manage over time. Even when families have the best intentions, they may not have the time to provide the care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. If your loved one needs help for a few hours a day or a few days a week, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of respite care University Park seniors can depend on.
Assist with Daily Tasks
The typical tasks required to run a household may become overwhelming for some older adults. Some may need assistance keeping up with monthly bills, while others may need reminders to make occasional appointments. Grocery shopping might become a challenge if your loved one is unable to carry the physical load. You can help by providing transportation and accompanying your loved one when he or she is running errands.
Aging adults who need help around the house, transportation to medical appointments and social events, and assistance with exercise can benefit from having in-home caregivers. When considering at-home care, families should make sure their senior loved ones have the resources they need to maintain their independence and remain healthy. Trusted in-home care professionals can assist seniors with daily tasks like cooking, bathing, and exercise, and they can also encourage them to focus on healthier lifestyle habits.
Manage Medications
Older adults may find it difficult to keep up with daily medications. Check periodically to make sure your loved one is taking his or her medications as prescribed. Family members should keep themselves informed about all their loved one’s medical conditions, prescribed medications, and possible interactions. Check medications for expiration dates and dosages, and monitor your loved one’s use of over-the-counter medications and supplements that might interfere with his or her normal medication regimen.
Address Mobility Issues
Routine exercise helps seniors stay fit, strong, and independent. Encourage physical activity according to your loved one’s ability. Older adults commonly enjoy walking, cycling, swimming, and doing yoga. These activities are good for maintaining physical ability and cardiovascular health. Physical therapy can help seniors regain flexibility and movement when certain medical conditions cause issues. If your loved one needs a cane or walker for mobility, make sure he or she uses the device properly. Some seniors use motorized scooters, which need periodic maintenance.
Ensure Quality of Life
Seniors should stay in touch with family members and friends. Encourage your loved one to continue attending church and engaging in other social activities. Visit as often as possible and maintain frequent contact by phone, text, or email. You should also have a plan in place in the event an accident or illness occurs. Make sure your loved one is part of the planning process in case there’s a need for complex medical care or in-home assistance.
University Park elder care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers. Trust Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate professional home care for your loved one. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (214) 363-3400.