5 Caregiving Tips for Seniors At Home

Most seniors prefer to enjoy their days in their homes, where they have built a lifetime of memories and lived happily with their neighbors. For some, the physical and emotional stress of leaving this behind, coupled with the fear of the unknown at a seniors’ home, can be overwhelming.

Home care allows seniors to hold onto the things that mean the most to them while still receiving the assistance and care that they need. However, the experience can sometimes be complex and difficult for the caregivers. Here, we have some advice that can make home care for your loved one a lot easier when applied.

1. Invest in a life alert type system

Medical alert systems connect people to emergency help in the event of a medical emergency. A med alert systems for seniors can be in the form of in-built press buttons at home or mobile wearable devices like bracelets and pendants.

Should a medical emergency arise when the senior person is all alone, the alert system sends an emergency signal to a monitoring center, who will respond appropriately or alert the person listed on the contact list to check on them.

2. Keep them active and engaged

It’s important to find a way to help your senior get to social, recreational, and religious events and activities they enjoy. When they are isolated from the world and confined to a lonely life indoors, the chances of suffering from depression can be high.

When giving them home care, visit them often, have fun, and arrange for moments where they can spend quality time with other family members and friends. Ensure they remain physically active, even if it is as simple as taking a walk or joining a sports club to stay healthy and get them feeling better.

3. Make modifications around the house

You may require to make some modifications and fixes to rid the house of any safety hazards. The elderly are at a high risk of falling, so make the home senior-friendly by having anti-slip mats in the shower, tub, and other slippery areas. Don’t forget to install grab bars and handrails in the toilet and shower too.

Tuck away the cords and cables, and remove extra clutter to prevent potential falls from tripping. Keep all the rooms in the house well-lit to improve safety. Modifying the steps for a ramp would be great for walkers and wheelchair users.

4. Supply them with healthy meals

Seniors may lack the ability and desire to cook, and they end up going without meals sometimes. As their caregiver, ensure they are well fed on healthy foods and drinks to keep them healthy. If you can’t fix them fresh meals daily, keep their kitchen well stocked with ready-made meals. You can also order in from special-diet suppliers in the area. Don’t forget to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables too.

5. Get help with caregiving

Taking care of a senior person at home, on top of other responsibilities, can take a toll on you. Even when you are doing a fantastic job, you need help from time to time so you can take some much-needed breaks. Ask your close family members to help once in a while or to take turns with the caregiving. If possible, agree on a schedule so you can structure and organize your life efficiently.

If your finances allow, you might consider hiring in-home caregivers either on a full-time or part-time basis. Some people volunteer under the senior companion program to help the elderly with their daily activities and errands; check to see if there are any available in your area.

Endnote

Home care for seniors allows them to age in a happy, safe, and comfortable environment. When you were younger, these people cared for you, so do your best now to make their senior years easier and happier for them.