The aging process older people go through creates a lot of major life changes that affect their overall well-being and quality of life. Most of them suffer from age-related conditions which can have a significant impact on their ability to do basic tasks by themselves, depriving them of their independence.
The truth is, the loss of independence is something most seniors struggle with the most. They usually have to rely on their family and friends to help them cope better with the daily challenges they face, so they can get through their golden years with ease and happiness.
In general, there are many ways you can make life easier for your aging parent. From creating a comfortable and safe living environment to hiring professional support, here is a list of five steps you should take to alleviate the challenges your loved one faces in old age. Longevity Live Paid Content.
Supply the required equipment
As people age, they typically go through a lot of physical and health changes that can make life a bit more stressful and challenging. An effective way of dealing with these changes is to supply your aging parent with the required equipment they need to make life easier.
For example, if your senior is struggling with body pain or has mobility issues, then you should consider getting them an adjustable home hospital bed. These beds offer great support and comfort, which allow people to get in and out of bed easily and also sleep better.
However, in order to find the best hospital beds for home use, it is important that you first consider your aging parent’s needs and preferences to choose a bed that will best suit them.
Make home safe
Old age and age-related health conditions can make it more difficult for seniors to move around the house without increasing the risk of falling or getting injured. That’s why it is essential that you make your aging parent’s home safer and free of hazards, so they don’t trip, fall or hurt themselves in any way.
Some simple fixes you can do include:
- Clearing all floors and walkways of clutter, cords, and rugs;
- Adding grab bars on stair railings and in the bathroom;
- Updating lights in all rooms;
- Ensuring all appliances work well;
- Minimizing the need to use step-stools.
Make use of paid services
Sometimes, due to your own personal obligations, you may not be able to help your aging parent in person. That’s why you should consider making use of paid services to provide your senior with the help and assistance they require at home.
For instance, you can hire professional help to come in and provide them with any services they require, from health care professionals to meal delivery services.
Other paid services you should consider acquiring for your parents include arranging transportation so they can travel as needed, and installing a medical alert system for monitoring and quick response in case of emergencies.
Check-in on them regularly
If your aging parent isn’t staying with you, it is important that you stay connected with them at all times and check in on them regularly, so they don’t feel isolated. Try to visit them as often as you can, like in the morning before on your way to work or for an hour each evening.
If your schedule doesn’t allow you to make frequent visits, then you can take advantage of the various technological advances and stay connected with your parents remotely. You can call them on the phone every day, make video calls for more personalized communication, or simply text.
Explore available aging care options
Even after taking all the right steps and precautionary measures to make life easier for your aging parent at home, caring for them is still an overwhelming responsibility that takes lots of time and dedication.
Fortunately, there are various aging care options you can rely on to help make their lives easier and better. Consider hiring geriatric care managers to give you guidance or help you manage all aspects of caring for your parents. Also, you can hire in-home caregiving help or take them to an assisted living community.
You can ask for assistance from geriatric doctors as well to help you deal with age-related conditions such as dementia and multiple chronic health issues.
Photo by Matthias Zomer
Final thoughts
The aging process may not be easy, but by making a few changes, you can instantly alleviate some challenges older adults face during their golden years. From making their home safe and comfortable to hiring professional help to guide them, there are many things you can do to make the life of your senior easier, better and healthier.
