Caring for an older adult is a responsibility that requires a lot of attention, commitment, patience, and careful monitoring of all their daily activities.
Having an older adult at home is something that can be extremely demanding. Especially when it comes to a person who has a limiting condition, be it physical, mental, or even both.
However, taking care of the needs of an older person does not have to become a burden for anyone involved. With some occasional changes within the home and establishing a schedule, everything will be much easier.
Patience and planning are essential to providing the assistance a person needs during their golden years.
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ToggleHaving a planned routine is the best way to guarantee an older adult a better quality of life.
When we talk about designing a routine, we are not only referring to controlling schedules and setting limits. We must also keep in mind who it is for and what their main needs are.
The most important thing is that this daily routine is full of activities that are stimulating and enjoyable for both the elderly person and their caregiver. The beginning can be the most difficult part of the process. But once the habit is created, everything will become easier.
One of the issues that most caregivers of the elderly are most concerned about is safety.
Thus, the first thing we must know in these cases is how to make the home adapt to the needs and requirements of the elderly person. A good idea is to position the furniture in such a way that they do not become potential obstacles.
Also having the best lit rooms possible is something that will be of great help to the elderly person. In the case of the bathroom, depending on the person’s condition, it might be convenient to install safety bars and use non-slip mats.
It is common for older adult to take higher doses than those indicated in their medications; either because they have developed a dependency or simply because of carelessness.
Our job as caregivers is to closely monitor their medical treatments. And establish a system that allows us total control over schedules and doses.
Something that can be very beneficial is to keep a log of the medications, schedules, and recommended doses. It is also effective to use a pill box since this will allow us to have more control of the amount of medication supplied.
Good personal hygiene is essential to leading a healthy lifestyle.
Clearly, when it comes to caring for the elderly, this is an activity that must be performed with extreme subtlety and great tact on the part of the caregiver. Especially when it comes to people with motor and coordination difficulties.
It is advisable to give the person as much independence as possible, so they will not feel uncomfortable or invaded. Also, you have to create the habit of always using moisturizing creams after bathing so that your skin has some extra hydration.
One of the most common mistakes made by people who care for the elderly is that they pay little attention to such an important issue as food.
To lead a healthier lifestyle, it is important to have a well-balanced diet; especially when we talk about elderly people, who need to eat a more varied and nutrient-rich diet.
Although the person is not on any special diet, it is necessary to considerably reduce the amount of salt that we use when preparing their meals. It’s also a good idea to start including more vegetables and plenty of foods rich in fiber and vitamin D.
Including a low-impact exercise routine within the itinerary that we design for an elderly person is extremely important.
Physical activity is very beneficial, especially for the respiratory and circulatory systems. Also, most low-impact exercises help improve coordination and strengthen joints.
Clearly, the exercises included in the routine must be suitable for the capabilities of the older adult. A short walk and some general stretching exercises are great ways to stay healthy and motivated.
Today we are much more aware that a healthy life is not just about eating, sleeping, and exercising. The psychological part also has an important role.
When we plan an itinerary for an elderly person, it is vital that a significant part of the time is dedicated to leisure and social activities.
Something very common among elderly people is that many tend to think that by needing special attention and care they are considered a hindrance.
For this reason, it is so important to include time in daily planning where the person can relax. And share with acquaintances and the rest of the family.
To have a healthy life, we must consider the psychological and emotional aspects of each person.
Although we know that aging is a natural process, it is always shocking to see how the deterioration of age progresses in our bodies.
When we keep this in mind, it is easier to understand the aggressive or reserved attitude of some older adults; especially with the people and relatives who take care of them and assist them.
Many use this as a defense mechanism to hide the fear of feeling that they are no longer useful; while others simply feel frustrated or depressed at the fact that they can no longer fend for themselves.
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