Most older adults prefer to live in their homes. Since they don’t want to lose their independence, they’re often hesitant to relocate to a senior living facility and want to stay close to their relatives. Many adult children with established careers provide care for their parents and other family members who need help getting around. Concerned caregivers follow a few tips to provide their loved ones with comfort and warmth.
Provide Well-Made Meals
Malnutrition in older adults can weaken the immune system, causing chronic inflammation and increasing the chance of hospitalization. Deficiency in nutrients also increases the risk of osteoporosis, a degenerative bone disease that reduces bone mass and increases the risks of fractures. Seniors should eat a well-balanced diet that contains whole grains along with fruits and vegetables while also having three servings of dairy to increase intake of calcium and Vitamin D.
Make Their Home Feel Safe
Falls are the most common fatal injury among seniors. This tip is especially important for caregivers who looks after someone who uses a wheelchair or walker to get by. Caregivers should remove fall hazards from the home to prevent unexpected falls. Creating an open environment also provides seniors greater convenience and makes them feel more secure. Some elder care services Westchester County provide homemaking services that can help with organization.
Offer Transportation
While some seniors still drive, others need someone to help them get around. Memory loss and declining vision in driving decrease a person’s ability to make snap judgments and navigate a specific route. This may become a greater problem when an older adult is unable to drive but needs to buy groceries for the week. Family members can support their needs by driving their loved one to a clothing store or doctor’s practice firm, which still provides some sense of independence.
There are several things to take into account as a family caregiver, but the increased responsibility involved in providing care doesn’t have to be off-putting. Caregivers feel happier when they help others, likely because they’re content that others are happy for them.
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