Top 5 Tips For Caring Older Adults
With aging, our mind and physical function naturally begins to deteriorate. Hence, it is important for the elderly to receive more proper care in order to maintain their physical and mental health, or to slow the progress of age-related health issues. Yet, some elderly people lack the attention and proper care they need and this may result in conditions such as depression, mood disorders, bad mental health, as well as other physical health problems. Therefore, what we need to do to keep them mentally and physically in a good condition is to take good care of them so they will feel cared and loved.
So here are some tips that you need to know about caring for the elderly.
Tips 1: Arrange proper care for them.
Have you realised or experienced this while taking care of them, that 80% of seniors prefer to stay in their homes as they age. Have you concern why?
- They feel relief to go anywhere as long as they feel comfortable and safe.
- It gives them a sense of independence and well being during the aging process.
- They are familiar with the neighbourhood and surroundings which is easier to ask for helps and access amenities.
- It can prevent conditions like depression and mood disorders which can result from being away from home.
Tips 2: Please make sure they have regular meals.
Proper and balanced nutrition are very important for the elderly. As people age, they are more prone to develop health conditions that may come with dietary restriction or increased needs.
Some of them may lose appetite or lack of interest, which could be attributed to many factors such as chewing difficulties, loneliness, or mood disorder. It is common situations for elderly to neglect meals that can lead deterioration of their health but as a caregiver you need to be concerned and guide them to eat some balanced meals. Balanced meals should consist of:
- Fruits and vegetables for fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
- Potatoes, bread, rice, pasta and other starchy foods for energy.
- Dairy and alternatives for proteins and fats.
- Beans, pulses, fish, eggs and seafood for protein and fats.
Moreover, if an elderly person is unable to cook by themself, you can consider hiring a cook or caregiver who will prepare the meals at home. You can always consult a dietitian or nutritionist to ensure they can receive personalized meal plans suitable for their conditions.
Tips 3: Ensure that they attend regular medical checkups!
If an elderly person suffers from health conditions, they will have to undergo regular medical checkups and take the medicines. Please remind the or guide them so that they will not skip their own medicines. Sometimes, we may encounter problems in which they are skipping doctor visits, either because of forgetfulness or simply refusal to see healthcare professionals.
If this happens to you, first of all you need to be there for them and let them know that their health is an important priority. If they unable to drive to the hospitals or clinic, you can either help drive them to the doctor’s or even better, accompany them during appointments.
Place any medicines that they need in a good place for them that is easy to find and take. The medicines need to be checked for expiration date and make sure they are taking the medicines at regular intervals. Keep a schedule of their medication in a handy notebook or your phone.
Tips 4: Make their living space friendly and safe
If elderly people need a rest, for sure they will find the places that are comfortable and tailored to their unique needs, such as:
- Find hospital beds that make it easier to get in and out of resting positions and will help them get a good rest or sleep.
- Make sure the mats are non-skid or anti-slip near slippery areas. You can put install slip resistant floors, to reduce risk of injuries from falling.
- Ensure that there are working lights in every area especially, kitchen, bathroom and staircases.
Tips 5: Encourage them to do an exercise
If the elderly are still able to walk or do some physical activities, you may encourage them to do some exercise according to their ability. It helps them to stay fit, energized and improves their self esteem which can positively impact their mental health. Staying fit can also help prevent several diseases that commonly occurs in old age.
They can start with a light walk, then gradually move to more intense exercises or do some other things that can make them more fit.
In conclusion, providing our beloved elderly with tender loving care is important to ensure that their remaining years will be spent with comfort and happiness. For best results, make sure to consult your physicians, geriatricians, or dietitians for proper advice on caring for the elderly.
Check out our recommended nutrition support for the elderly.
