Watching someone you love struggle is difficult, especially when it’s an elderly family member. Where once there may have been a fit, strong, and capable person, you might find someone who finds it difficult to use the bathroom or cook for themselves. This is when you know it’s time for the assistance of a company that offers Senior Care West Palm Beach, or care wherever you are based. If you find yourself needing to look after a struggling elderly relative, follow these steps to ensure they are well taken care of.
Understand the Signs
First of all, you should understand what signs to look out for. Some signs that your elderly relative is struggling include:
- Forgetting things
- Sudden weight loss
- A change in personality
- Poor hygiene
- Isolation
By knowing what to look out for, you’ll be able to provide help as soon as it is needed.
Consider Care
If your elderly relative is struggling to manage daily life and you cannot provide the help they require, it is time to look into care. A care home in Epsom provides luxury care, allowing you peace of mind that your loved one is in great hands.
Visit Often
You should visit your elderly relative as often as possible, especially when they are struggling. By doing so, you will give them something to look forward to while checking in on them. Loneliness is a large problem in the elderly, so make it your mission to ensure your loved one never ends up isolated. If you have other family members, encourage them to visit often as well, so your elderly relative is always surrounded by those they love.
Take them to the Doctor
If you notice worrying signs, you should take them to the doctor. Sometimes people don’t listen to worries, so to make sure your loved one goes, tell them you will drive them there. It’s always best to get checked, as catching an illness early will make the process of recovery much easier.
You must pay attention to where you will order help and support for people with illnesses or disabilities. Before hiring a person for this important task, research the offers of the various companies in the industry to find good professionals.
Make Their Home Safe
Struggling seniors require a home that keeps them safe, so go over to their house and make it as hazard-proof as possible. That includes installing grab bars, de-cluttering, and sorting out any exposed or dodgy electrics. If they struggle to get up and down the stairs, you should also look into getting a stairlift.
Talk to Them About What They Want
Unless they are mentally unable, you should include them in all the decisions you make. By doing this, you show them that they still have control over their own life, which is a worry for many seniors. Your goal is to make their lives as safe and happy as possible, so they should get some say in that.
Look After Your Own Needs
Looking after someone else can be both physically and emotionally draining, so make sure you take the time to look after yourself. If you feel a little overwhelmed, take a day to yourself, run a bubble bath, or switch off your notifications and read for a little while.
No one wants to see an elderly loved one deteriorate, but by being strong and taking care of their needs, you ensure their later years are filled with care and love.
