Whether you are taking care of your parents, grandparents, or other relatives, watching them grow older (and more vulnerable) can be quite scary. Over time, you may notice a shift in the dynamic of your relationship, as you become their caregiver as opposed to the other way around. As a result, you may feel a heightened sense of responsibility, as you want to ensure you provide for them in as many ways as possible. This can be a lot of weight on your shoulders but remember you don’t have to do it alone.
With that in mind, here is how you can take care of a senior loved one.
Communicate & Listen.
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A recent study has found that nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated, which results in intense loneliness. This is because they are more likely to live alone or experience loss. Therefore, the best way to care for any seniors is to simply be there for them. If you can’t visit in person, try to call them at least once a day. If possible, organize a video call so that they can see your face. Most of the time, they just want someone to listen to them.
Prioritize their health.
As we get older, it’s likely that you will begin to face more health conditions or complications. Therefore, you must find various ways to prioritize their health. For example, you should encourage them to continue to follow a healthy, balanced diet – ensuring they get all the nutrients they need. If they struggle to cook for themselves, consider batch cooking and giving them dishes to heat up. For example, if you cook for yourself each day, set aside a portion of the meal, and freeze it. You can then deliver home-cooked meals to the door, and they only have to heat them up.
Additionally, you may wish to help them develop a tailored exercise program. This is an excellent way of helping them maintain their fitness, flexibility, and agility – which can fight some of the more complicated signs of aging.
Consider assisted living.
Although your loved one may wish to maintain some independence, sometimes they will be much better off if they live in a senior living home instead of continuing living alone. This boasts a range of benefits; they will be with people their age with similar interests, and they have easy access to support should they need it. However, it is important that you take the time to choose the right long term senior living home for your situation. Focus on what your loved one needs, and find a place that provides them with precisely that. For example, the Catholic Care Home provides residents with opportunities to explore new (and old) hobbies, socialize, and even has a resident chef on hand to cook delicious meals. Regardless of the home you chose, ensure it is a place that you would enjoy spending time – as this is usually an indicator of how your relative may feel.
Photo by Matthew Bennett