Help Your Elderly Parents Keep Their Independence – Most of us will be caregivers for an elderly parent at some stage in our lives. Some people may juggle caregiving with work and children. Some people can travel hundreds or thousands of miles to care for their parents. Every situation is unique, but when elderly parents can no longer care for themselves, they may require assistance. It’s important to provide the support they need while preserving as much independence as possible. With all of the changes that come with growing older, they may believe that freedom is one of the few things they can still control. Freedom provides elders with a sense of life, accomplishment, and self-worth. So how can you help your parents keep their independence?
See the world through their eyes
Seniors slowly but steadily bid farewell to their employment, health, energy, mobility, friends, and freedom. This is enough to make someone irritable, angry, moody, or needy. Try to empathise with your parents while he or she is being grumpy.
Consider getting a medical alert system
If your parents live alone, it’s natural to be concerned about their safety. Emergencies can strike at any time, and the thought of them being alone during a crisis can be unsettling. A medical alert system offers a simple solution, giving them a way to call for help with the push of a button. This can provide peace of mind for both them and you. When choosing fall detection systems for seniors, make sure it’s easy for them to use and comfortable to wear. If the device is bulky or uncomfortable, they may be reluctant to use it. It’s also important to ensure they fully understand how the system works because during an emergency, they shouldn’t have to try to figure out how to use it. Take the time to walk them through the process and make sure they feel confident using it when needed.
Encourage them to be more social
Isolation can be detrimental to an elder’s health and survival if they lose their mobility, energy, hearing, or vision. Your parents need to get out of the house and socialise with others who have common interests in order to maintain an independent lifestyle. Look for activities in their neighbourhood or at the nearby senior centre. Encourage your parents to participate in social activities, whether it’s morning coffee, a monthly crochet club, or weekly bridge.
Communicate with them
It’s pretty common for parents to want to hear from their children. From email to social media, today’s technologies make it easy to keep in touch. Make it a habit to contact your parents on a daily basis. If you need help remembering, set an alarm on your phone. When it comes to making crucial decisions, contact is more than just picking up the phone. Don’t give your opinion; instead, raise any questions you have and ask for theirs. Listen and give motivation and guidance, but only when asked for, give your own advice. Including your elderly parents in decision-making shows them that you respect their thoughts.
Finally, speaking clearly but not condescendingly, acknowledging differences of opinion, and raising concerns at the right time are all helpful tips for engaging with elders.
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