Caring for one’s parents is never easy. A significant amount of responsibility comes with this task. Many people feel overwhelming pressure when they take on this job because they know their parents took care of them. They want to do the same and worry they will fail. How can a person provide the best care for their aging parents while also caring for themselves?
Establish a Routine
Seniors and caregivers benefit from having a set routine. These routines provide structure and predictability, which can be especially helpful for individuals struggling with dementia or mental health issues. Many families turn to St. Andrews Resources for Seniors to obtain help in setting up a schedule that works for their loved ones. They want to ensure the schedule reduces any confusion and anxiety the senior is experiencing.
Having a routine allows seniors to feel they have more control over their lives. This schedule should include everything from meals to when they take their medication. However, it should also include time for exercise, leisure, and downtime.
Regular Checkups
Seniors must be seen by their doctors regularly to ensure any problems are caught early. These visits also allow for medication adjustments and management of the senior’s chronic conditions. Regular checkups are only part of comprehensive health care today. Seniors must also have vaccinations and meet with specialists if the regular doctor cannot handle their health conditions. Track all of these visits and tests to ensure that the individual receives the highest level of care.
Exercise
Every person needs regular exercise to thrive. Seniors find that exercising regularly helps support their health and vitality. Their balance and flexibility will improve, and they will become stronger, reducing the risk of falling and injury. Seniors don’t have to do a complete workout initially. They can build over time because even limited physical activity will improve their cardiovascular health, mood, and more.
Socialization Opportunities
Seniors need to interact with other people regularly for their emotional well-being. Isolation and loneliness are common in seniors, and they can easily be avoided by making social connections. Caregivers should encourage loved ones to visit as often as possible. Family members who don’t live nearby can connect with the seniors using technology. When seniors have strong connections, their quality of life improves. These individuals provide them with emotional support and motivate them when they need it.
Medication Management
Seniors often have to take multiple medications every day. Sadly, many seniors make medication mistakes that can damage their health or possibly kill them. Medication management is essential to ensure the senior does not have an adverse reaction or accidentally overdose. Drug interactions are a concern when seniors must take more than one medication.
Nutritious Meals
Many people don’t enjoy cooking for one or two. Seniors often find that they don’t eat healthy and balanced meals because it is more of a hassle to make these meals than to grab something and eat it. They need fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats to maintain the highest quality of life. The person making these meals must ensure they eat a balanced diet and that any dietary restrictions and medical conditions are considered.
Caregivers must also practice self-care. As any parent knows, it’s easy to neglect one’s own health and mental well-being when caring for another human being. However, practicing self-care makes a person a better caregiver because they get time to relax and recharge. Consider respite care or asking family members to step in occasionally so the aging parent receives the best care.
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