Caring for Your Elder Family Yourself
Getting old is inevitable if you live into your 80’s and 90’s. Other than a small few, as we age the more fragile we all become. It is an inevitable part of life. Many say that being old is almost like returning to childhood. And just like a child, our elders require more of our attention, love, understanding, and most importantly, quality care. As a family member with a career and family of your own, it might be impossible to care for your elders in their ailing conditions properly. Especially if they live far away. Many people lovingly move an elderly parent into their own home, but end up hiring a Caregiver anyway. An experienced caregiving service can offer your loved ones the complete care-at-home they deserve for their wellness and happiness.
Why do Elders Need Quality Senior Care?
Sometimes life and responsibilities can get in the way of quality care for your elders. You should never feel guilty about offering your loved ones the best care options like an adult day care or an assisted living facility. Providing them with quality care is also a part of your love for them.
Safety is Number One: The number one cause of death for seniors is injuries suffered from a fall. In 2021, 38,742 older adults died as the result of unintentional falls(78.0 per 100,000 population) The unintentional fall-related death rate was higher among men (91.4 per 100,000) than among women (68.3). If they have trouble walking, maintaining their balance, etc., it’s usually time to hire an experienced Caregiver…at least part-time. Let them teach you how to transfer them in and out of bed, or a chair. Also how to bathe or shower them safely.
They Deserve Appreciation: By offering them professional, quality care, you are giving attention to their specific health needs. You are also showing them how much you love and value them by giving them the best care that they deserve.
Preserving Heritage: Our elders are our past. They carry the roots of our society and we need to preserve and care for these roots till the end. Respect is the best currency to buy their love and warmth.
Sense Of Belongingness: Offering seniors with good elderly care makes them feel less isolated and depressed. A sense of community and social togetherness can energize them with renewed strength.
Sense Of Purpose: The best elderly care involves bringing positivity into their daily life. This will lead to a sense of purpose, which will make their remaining days brighter and more cherish able.
Right Thing To Do: With time their mental and physical health will only falter. If they spend their remaining days in quality care, they will feel well-loved by you and those around them. Giving them proper care is the right thing to do.
We all started with loving grandparents and capturing moments with them or talking about their life together can be a meaningful way to spend time with your loving elders. We should teach love for elders in our coming generations as well. Our grandparents carry the unique values of humanity and love inside them which need to be passed on to grandchildren to keep them alive. So how can you love and take care of your elders?
7 Ways To Care For Elders
Quality Time: Loneliness and depression in seniors can lead to isolation and loneliness. Only quality time spent with elders can curb these thoughts and feelings. Healthy aging is associated with healthy relationships. If they live in an assisted living facility, you should ensure a family visit with them to nurture your bond with them.
Value Their Advice: Our elders have a wealth of knowledge from their larger-than-life experiences. It is important to not openly criticize them if you don’t see eye to eye with them. Instead, listen to them keenly and appreciate their input because it is all coming from a point of wisdom.
Respect: Showing them respect can be done by talking to them politely and with kindness. This will strengthen your bond with your elders. Manners and etiquette should be ingrained in our personalities and should shine through in our interactions with our seniors.
Plan A Food Date: Food brings families closer together. This age-old adage is correct. Even if it is inside the home, a home-cooked meal can help in relieving stress. This also provides an opportunity to spend quality time with our seniors while strengthening the bond.
Introduce Them To Tech: Digital media must be challenging for our elders and helping them navigate this giant so they can talk to their loved ones is an essential task. Be patient with them and guide them through the digital world. This will bring you closer together in your respective worlds.
Bonding With Little Ones: Our elders bond best with their grandchildren as they are energizers for the elderly. A strong bond with kids brings unconditional love and a purposeful life to the elders. This also aids in strengthening family bonds and bringing children and seniors closer together.
Choose Proper Care:
Elders requiring special care are something prevalent. You may not always be available for them, but you can choose from many in-home care services. These services bring the companionship and independence that they deserve and require.
Old age is not a stereotype. Just like when we were children, we needed their help. There comes a time when our elders need us. We should spend quality bonding time with them and respect their love and attention, which is very valuable. Choosing a customizable care plan for your loved ones is not a bad thing. Many care plans suit the specific requirements of the elders. Offering seniors proper medical and mental care shows that you support and understand them.
Caring for our elders is a beautiful way to give back the love and care they once provided to us. We, at Heart of Mercy Home Care, believe in creating a supportive environment for your elders where they feel valued, respected, and connected. Whether it's through spending quality time together, respecting their wisdom, or ensuring they receive the best possible care, every action counts. Choosing the right care plan shows our commitment to their well-being and happiness. As we help our elders navigate their later years, we not only honor their legacy but also teach the next generation the importance of compassion, respect, and love for those who have paved the way for us.