Aging can bring its fair share of complications. But it is important to remember that growing older is a privilege. If you are responsible for the care of an elderly loved one, it is helpful to keep a positive attitude when discussing the aging process.
According to the American Association of Retired Persons, roughly 90% of seniors want to stay home as they age. This is known in many senior health communities as "aging in place." This is a great way for a senior to enjoy the comfort of their own home. However, they still may require some assistance from outside sources like family members and medical professionals. Here are some ways you can help your loved one successfully age in place.
Schedule Medication
Keeping up with medications can be difficult for an elderly person. This is especially true for folks experiencing memory loss or other cognitive issues. To assist with this, you can create a medication schedule for your loved one to follow. If he/she has trouble maintaining the system you have created for them, then you must assume the responsibility of administering the medication to them as needed. This will ensure that your loved one stays on their proper regimen.
Install Monitors
As people age, their stability can weaken. This means that risk of slips and falls are even greater for elderly folks than for people of other ages. However, there are several ways to mitigate these risks.
You can install a monitor or alert system that will notify you or an emergency service if your loved one slips or falls. This will allow your loved one to maintain his/her independence on a day-to-day basis while still providing you the reassurance that help will arrive as soon as it is needed.
Make Modifications
Accessibility is key to the overall comfort and livability of a home. You must ensure that your elderly loved one can get around his/her home safely and effectively. This means that you may have to install rails on the staircases to assist their mobility. You may also have to add non-slip mats on the bathroom floor or any other potentially slippery surface. Keeping your loved one safe in their home is the number-one way to allow them to age in place.
Plan Activities
Aging in place does not mean aging in a cage. Make sure that your loved one still has access to the activities they most enjoy. Stock their home with the supplies required for their hobbies and make sure to schedule social activities to keep them active and engaged. This is essential for their overall health and happiness!
If you are looking for more ways to help your loved one age in place, contact our experts at Home Instead today. We love helping our community members live their best lives possible!
