LIFE FACTS-TAKING CARE OF THE ELDERLY. A MUST READ!

• Written by Janet Odidi Obuotor for:

   echoblog-ger.blogspot.com

Taking Care of The Elderly a MUST!

We all have one or more elderly people in our lives. We all hope to grow to a "ripe" old age. 

So many prayers, dreams and aspirations for long healthy life. 

Let us go practical now, ageing does come with some needed assistance no matter how strong or healthy you are.

Who are the elderly? To some, the elderly are people age 65 years and older. Why others feel 60 years is the ideal age to be classified as elderly. 

Whatever you consider the ideal age, what is important is making sure that they get the required care and assistance to make them blossom even in old age. 

Care for the elderly can feel overwhelming sometimes because a vast majority of us, have no form of experience or training on what to do. We care but we do not know exactly how to express this care in a way that would be of immense benefit to them.

Here are a few tips below on ways to take care of the elderly. 

A. Create Family Time and Support:

Creating time to spend with those we love and care about is a deliberate effort. There is always something that seems more important to do but we must prioritize and give special thought to the elderly. 

When you are making your plans on the support that you want to give to your elderly. It is always good to carry the elderly along. They can be very difficult sometimes, this is because as humans we love our independence and do not want to lose control of it. 

That is why it is so important to involve your elderly adult as much as possible when you are planning for their care. This helps them see you more as a partner rather than someone who is swooping in to make changes or usurp their entire existence.

Make them trust that you care! You are here to support them! There is most likely going to be resistance at first but with time you will get the desired result. 

B. Finances:

Caring for an older adult will cost money. You cannot be stuck in limbo regarding this.

You must draw up a budget to estimate future costs so you will be prepared. Whether it be assisted living or they moving in with you, it will involve money.

Evaluate everyday costs like food, caregiving supplies and the modifications to be made to the home to ensure their safety.

C. Safety of The Home They Stay and The Environs.

Make sure all floors and walkways are clear of clutter, cords, and rugs. Consider adding grab bars in the bathroom and stair railings throughout. 

Updating lights so all rooms are bright and switches are easily accessible. Ensuring all appliances work well and are within easy reach. Minimizing the need to use step-stools or bend down low.

Domestic staff are sometimes needed to help ease the pressure. Especially when you live in a different city or have a tight business schedule. However, you must ensure that you closely monitor the services they render. These days spy cameras can come in very handy.

D. Medical Needs.

This is of paramount importance. 

Ascertain the medical condition by getting professional help. Strictly monitor the older adult's adherence to the Doctor's order. A wearable medical alert device can create awareness of a medical emergency. You can discuss that option with your elderly.

E. Personal Hygiene.

It involves assisting the elderly by making sure their clothing, bedding, oral health, undergarments are in a top-notch state. Ensuring that they get regular baths as and when due.

F. Mobility.

The environment should be safe and easy to navigate. Built-in elevators in houses with staircases to assist those with physical challenges. Where that is not available or accessible. A simple bungalow apartment is the best bet for easy mobility. 

G. Meal Preparation.

Diets should be prepared bearing in mind the health status of the elderly. Encourage them to eat healthily. Create time to eat alongside them sometimes, make it fun.

H. Social Interaction and Networking.

Growing old does not mean that all social interaction should be cut off. No one loves to live in isolation. 

We must pay regular visits to the elderly.  Isolation is a safety hazard, loneliness has a serious negative effect on overall health.

Create avenues for them to interact with their grandchildren, keep in touch with their friends and loved ones. The ones with a positive attitude and outlook on life. We don't want anyone bothering them with burdens they cannot shoulder, do we? 

I. Communication.

Please ensure the safety of the elderly by ensuring that communication is easy and accessible, whereby they can call for help and keep in touch with family and friends.

Make sure their phone is easy to use and easily accessible. For some, keeping a simple mobile phone with pre-programmed numbers in their pocket is reassuring and easier to get to.

The key element here is to always stay in touch with your elderly. Stay in touch, by all means, stay in touch. 

References: Daily Caring and Wikipedia 

Picture Credit: Janet Odidi Obuotor's archives.