Looking after our aging parents or relatives suffering from illness at home is a very challenging but rewarding task. Chronic diseases last one year or more and require clinical attention. They can cause restrictions that may prevent an elderly person from continuing her daily tasks and being self-sufficient. Here are some practical suggestions to care for the elderly with chronic diseases and get help.
What are Chronic Conditions?
Chronic diseases are common among the elderly. Some of the diseases include hypertension, elevated cholesterol, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, heart failure, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. It is crucial to know the particular condition that the loved one is facing in order to be able to help adequately.
10 Tips for Caring for Elderly Loved Ones
- Learn About the Condition
Take the time to learn more about the condition of the senior you are attending. Understanding the signs and indicators of the disease, how it develops, and how it is managed. Talk to the doctor about the disease to know the right approach and then act accordingly.
- Follow the Care Plan
You should follow the treatment plan recommended by the doctor. This may comprise drugs, exercises, physical therapy, and routine medical examinations. Do not deviate too much from the suggestions provided by the healthcare practitioner to get the best results.
- Help Maintain a Healthy Weight
Promote the consumption of nutritious foods and engage elderly people in moderate physical activity. This may include walking, stretching, and some weight lifting, which should not be vigorous. Minimize the intake of salt and alcohol in their diets, this helps control their levels.
- Limit Stress
Assist the senior in releasing stress through various means, such as meditation or breathing exercises. Ensure they are well rested by sleeping at least 7 to 8 hours every night.
- Offer Specific Help
Ask the seniors what they need help with, and be specific. For example, “Do you need help picking up your medications?” This will help them accept the help more easily, and make them more receptive.
- Listen to Their Needs
Listen to the seniors and observe what they are saying. Making them listen in this manner can help them feel understood and supported.
- Encourage Autonomy
Allow the seniors to manage as much as they can without intervention from anyone. This makes them feel they are on their own, improving their morale.
- Foster Positivity
Maintain a positive outlook but avoid dismissing their feelings. Speak of what they achieved in their lives, all those smiling and happy moments. This will help them to overcome their struggles and lead a more peaceful life!
- Avoid Toxic Phrases
Do not dismiss things like “It could be worse.” Instead, say, “I understand you are upset, and therefore, how can I help?”
- Be Their Loved One
Avoid the assumption that caregiving is the only role you have to play. Focus on nurturing meaningful relationships by engaging in activities the two of you would find fun.
Conclusion
You need to be very careful when providing care for your elderly patients. Remember, sometimes, you need to stop thinking from the physical perspective. Instead, focus on the emotional perspective. Once you can establish a bond with the patients, convincing them to take the medications in time will be easier. Spend some time with them and help them with their needs. This will boost their morale, increasing their enthusiasm to fight the illness. Follow the tips of the doctor. With patience, compassion, and these simple tips, you can assist your elderly loved ones in living a happier, healthier life at home.
