Tips for Elderly Care

As your loved one gets older, they may require more care and supervision. Familiarize yourself with the different ways you can help take care of them.  

Home Safety

Minimize the risk of falling in their home by making modifications to improve accessibility and minimize safety hazards. This might include modifying their bathroom with a raised toilet seat and adding shower safety bars Norfolk VA to safely enter and exit the tub. If the home has several steps, consider installing ramps to make it easier for a walker or wheelchair. Remove any small rugs, keep wires neatly tucked away, and clear rooms of any clutter to prevent tripping. Make sure the entire house is well lit and use auto-sensor nightlights in case they wake up at night.

Social Interaction

It’s important to visit often. Without social interaction, your loved one can become lonely and more easily depressed. The social interaction will help keep their mind active and improve their mood. If they can walk or be pushed in a wheelchair, take them for a leisurely walk to help them stay active and enjoy the outdoors. While you are visiting, you can help organize their medicine and tidy up the house some more. You might help sort their mail, wash a load of laundry, or water their plants. Make sure they have enough fresh food and that everything is not spoiled. Your loved one will appreciate your company and help around the house.

Additional Help

Depending on the level of care required, you may need to hire an aide or caretaker. Determine whether you need part-time help or 24-hour coverage. An aide can help with daily activities like preparing meals, running errands, housekeeping, getting dressed, or showering. This can be an individual recommended to you personally or someone hired from a licensed agency. Be sure to check references and only hire someone you can trust.

Help manage the responsibility of caring for an elderly loved one by understanding the different ways you can provide the best care for them.