How to Support Your Elderly Loved Ones

The Challenges of Caring for Aging Parents

As people grow older, they inevitably reach a stage at which they require more support and care. Providing this care for an older loved one can be extremely rewarding, and a wonderful way to bond and make the later years a joyous time. However, helping aging parents and other relatives can also be challenging, and you may find yourself looking for care tips to help an elderly loved one. This is understandable, because as much as you love your older family members, being a caretaker can be draining. Here, we offer tips for caring for aging parents that will make it easier to fill this time with memories to cherish, enabling your loved ones to live with the grace and dignity they deserve.

Tips to Better Support an Elderly Loved One

Typically, older people want to stay independent as long as possible. It can be difficult for them to ask for help, and that can make it hard for you to know how to best support them. If you find yourself in the position of serving as caregiver to an aging parent, there are some steps you can take to make your life and theirs more enjoyable.

• Make Your Home Senior-Safe. As we age, our physical abilities change, particularly our balance. Falls are a leading cause of injuries among older people, and a fall can have catastrophic consequences. Prevent this by taking measures to make the house safer.
  • Make sure there is adequate lighting to allow smooth navigation around the house. Stairs and entrances, in particular, should be well lit.
  • Reduce slip and fall hazards. In the bathroom, install grab bars and anti-slip measures in the bathtub and on the floor. Throughout the house, keep pathways clear, secure rugs and carpets, and ensure that there are no cords or other trip hazards.
  • Provide handrails and ramps where needed. All stairs should have sturdy handrails and steps that are easy to manage. If ramps are necessary, have them installed.
  • Purchase furniture that is a comfortable height. Seniors need chairs and beds that they can get in and out of easily.
  • Encourage appropriate footwear. Ill-fitting shoes can cause people to stumble, and soles that are too slick can cause falls. Help your loved one choose shoes that are comfortable and safe.

• Help Seniors get Screenings and Check-ups Regularly. At every age, there are screenings and checkups that can help us stay healthy. These medical appointments become more important as we age, especially for seniors who may have existing chronic conditions. It can be challenging for older people to keep up with all the necessary appointments, so as a caregiver, you can help. Encourage your loved one to schedule needed appointments, offer to provide transportation to and company at the appointment, but allow your loved one to take the lead in talking to the doctor. Another way you can help is by assisting with medication management and remembering appointments.
• Encourage Seniors to Stay Active. It can be difficult, even for younger people, to get enough exercise. It is particularly challenging for older people, who suffer from age related loss of strength and muscle mass, and may be dealing with chronic illnesses, However, physical activity can help promote good health, even in our later years. Staying active can help people manage and even improve their health, and it promotes better cognitive function as well. Seniors should make it their goal to get about 150 minutes of aerobic activity each week, along with strength training. You can help your older loved ones stay active by walking together, exercising at home, or joining a workout class. Don’t forget to encourage mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. Challenging our minds can help keep them sharp, well into our later years.
• Maintain Healthy and Adequate Nutrition. Encourage your loved one to eat a nutritious diet, full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and dairy. Avoid processed foods, and minimize the intake of sugar, saturated fats, and sodium. Additionally, make sure your loved one is drinking plenty of water during the day. Be aware that older people often have dental issues or side effects from medication that can diminish their appetite. If you notice an issue, investigate to see what can be done to help your loved one stay healthy and well-nourished.
• Keep Them Company. Older people often experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, and this can cause cognitive decline. Spend time with your loved one, taking the time to actively listen and offer emotional support. Encourage social interactions with friends, neighbors, and other family members.
• Equip Yourself with Health Knowledge and Caregiving Skills. Learn as much as you can about the conditions your loved one is dealing with, so that you can help with management. Take a caregiver training course, to learn nursing skills, personal care techniques, and other skills that will help you care for your loved one more efficiently.
• Don’t Treat Loved Ones like Helpless Children. No one wants to be treated like a child after a lifetime of experience. Even if your loved ones have reduced abilities, they can still be involved in decisions that affect them. Talk to them, ask their opinions, and involve them in household responsibilities. Try to strike a healthy balance between taking care of your loved ones and encouraging their independence.
• Know Where to Get Help When Needed. Before a crisis occurs, make a list of emergency numbers, including doctor’s phone numbers, so that you will be ready to make a call when you need to find help. Contact respite care providers, as well, so that you can have backup when you need a break.
• Get Outside. No matter your age, being outside in the sunshine and fresh air can be beneficial. Go outside with your loved one, and you will both find your mood and attitude lifted. Take a walk outside for exercise, and you will get the added benefits of vitamin D from the sun.

Texas Medical Supply Can Help with Taking Care of Aging Parents

When you are taking care of older people, there are times you will need medical supplies to facilitate this care. For high-quality medical supplies from industry-leading manufacturers, trust Texas Medical Supply. Our locally owned and operated medical supply company, located in Houston, TX, offers an extensive selection of hospital beds, lift chairs, mobility scooters, power wheelchairs, and more. Whether you are looking to buy or rent medical equipment, we have something to fit your budget and lifestyle, including used equipment at affordable prices. Our team of experts is here for you every step of the way, from helping you make the most of your equipment to delivering equipment directly to your home, to assembling your equipment for you. Shop now to find the medical equipment you need, or contact us through our website for more information.