Caregiving is about more than assisting with the activities of daily living. When done right, it is also about improving a person’s quality of life.
Seniors are more likely to suffer from multiple health problems because of having decreased physical and mental functions. Solitude, impaired sexual activity, and chronic metabolic disorders are some of the causes that can cause emotional distress. These problems can diminish the senior's quality of life.
Here are ways to improve the quality of life for seniors:
1. Treat depression
Late-life depression affects more than 6.5 million seniors 65 and over. Stressful life events (retirement, deaths of family and friends), medical illness, side effects of drugs and many other factors can also contribute to depression. Recognizing the signs of depression and seeking help from a doctor, psychologist, therapist, or counselor is vital for improving the quality of life.
2. Help seniors feel useful
Everyone wants to their life to have meaning. Encourage seniors to help with everyday tasks. Even if they are unable to do these tasks effectively, perfectly, or even correctly. That is okay. What's important is they get to contribute
Here are some examples:
- Helping with grocery shopping
- Making up the shopping list
- Laundry - helping to fold clothes helps with their dexterity and sense of accomplishment
- Staying on top of the world and local news
- Preparing or helping to prepare dinner
3. Encourage regular physical activity
Regular physical activity is essential for quality of life. It helps maintain a healthy and optimistic feeling for both body and mind.
Some examples of gentle physical activities
- Going for a walk
- Cleaning around the house
- Gardening (in moderation)
- Chair yoga
- Stretching
- Virtual workouts (see video)
4. Keep the seniors mentally active
- Crossword puzzles
- Brain games
- Reading
- Thought provoking discussions
5. Help seniors stay connected with family, friends, and community
Isolated and lonely seniors have shorter life expectancy and are at higher risk for dementia.
Avoid this by empowering your older adult to stay connected to their community, family and friends.
Some suggestions:
- Arrange for family and friends to meet, eat with, or take them out daily
- Arrange transportation so they can go to senior centers or church
- Encourage them to attend any celebrations-birthday, graduation, vacation, etc.
- Encourage them to volunteer with charitable organizations
Do you have suggestions you would like to share? Please send to kdillon@seniorhelpers.com