Health

Senior Caregiving 101: How to Take Care of an Elderly Loved One

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By Admin Desk

Did you know that around seven percent of adult children provide care for their elderly parents? You might need to care for an elderly loved one soon. If you want to learn about how to care for a senior, we can help.

In this guide, we’ll go over senior caregiving tips.

Want to learn more? Keep reading.

Create a Caregiving Team

Adult children tend to talk together about their parents’ living situation and health. You might wonder when you should get involved in caring for your aging loved one.

Don’t leave things to the last minute. Otherwise, an unforeseen disaster or event will force you to act.

You want to create a strategy. Think about how you can support your elderly relative with their finances, health, and daily care.

Help and support can come from a few individuals. You might lean on other family members, close friends, or neighbors.

Make sure initial care planning discussions occur with a few people.

Communicate With Your Loved One

You might feel like you’re walking on eggshells when it comes time to chat with your loved one about end-of-life care. Try not to feel nervous or stressed out.

Talk to your loved one, and explain the different kinds of treatment available. You can also explain what you’re able to provide.

Provide Care at Home

When looking for health care providers, ask them if they can provide care at home. You want to look for providers who will do home visits. Some health care providers will offer appointments over the phone.

You can coordinate services for your loved one. Look at hiring someone who will come and clean your loved one’s home once a week. Is there someone in the community who sells nutritious and affordable meals?

When you’re working out these details, make sure your loved one is involved. You want your loved one to feel independent, voice concerns, and make decisions.

Learn more about elderly homecare. Don’t forget about the durable medical equipment, such as high quality hospital beds, specialist mattresses, specialized chairs, ceiling-mounted or portable lifts, commodes, urinals, and bedpans that will make it easier for your elderly parents to move around.

Don’t Forget About Social Activities

Community is essential for people’s physical and mental health. A lot of older adults feel isolated. Isolation can negatively impact people’s health.

Make sure you plan social outings for your loved one. Also, invite your loved one to family gatherings or activities. Plan a board game night at their home or a family dinner.

Use Technology

Continue to encourage your elderly relative to learn about new technology. Your loved one can schedule FaceTime phone calls with family members.

If your parent or relative feels confident using their phone or tablet, they’ll feel prepared for telehealth appointments.

Caring For Yourself

There will be challenges you face when caring for a loved one. Some people get overwhelmed at first when caring for an aging relative.

Make sure you take advantage of the resources available to you. Join an online support group or plan getaways for yourself. You will need to take part in activities to relieve tension or stress.

Also Check: long term care facilities

Now You Know More About Senior Caregiving

We hope this guide on senior care was helpful. Senior caregiving can be stressful for the caregiver. Make sure you take short vacations and maintain your health.

Focus on including your loved one in your social community. Hire a maid to clean your loved one’s home. Ask health care providers if they offer services at home.

Are you looking for more helpful tips? Check out our resources on health and travel.