The elderly are especially prone to depression and lethargy. This is due to their age and the many physical ailments that become common among seniors. Every caregiver must understand the causes of this malady, and be able to recognize how it affects their senior relative. Learning strategies for dealing with depression or lethargy in seniors who are struggling with maintaining personal hygiene can help them get back on track with caring for their needs.
Symptoms and Causes of Depression and Lethargy in Seniors
A variety of reasons can cause depression and lethargy in seniors. Common symptoms include sadness, difficulty sleeping or oversleeping, feeling fatigued or having little energy, and not taking pleasure in activities they once enjoyed. Physical issues such as chronic pain, fatigue, or other medical conditions may also lead to depression in seniors. In some cases, medications used to treat these ailments can also contribute to depression and lethargy.
Psychosocial factors including loneliness due to the recent loss of a loved one, moving into an assisted living facility, and retirement from work may also lead to depression for many seniors who are struggling with significant life changes. Depression is often overlooked by healthcare providers, so it is essential for family members and friends to be attuned to any changes that could indicate distress among their aging relatives.
Strategies to Help Seniors With Their Personal Hygiene
There are several strategies caregivers can try to help seniors with their personal hygiene goals:
Establish a Routine
Establishing an organized routine is a great way to help seniors with personal hygiene. It provides consistency and clarity on the necessary tasks. Specific, concrete instructions should be given, such as showering three times per week and brushing teeth each morning and night. Having a full daily routine written down where the seniors can see it can also be especially helpful. This way, they can ensure they stay on task and complete their goals.
Break Hygiene Tasks into Smaller Steps
Breaking hygiene tasks into smaller steps makes them easier for seniors to manage. This is especially true if they are struggling with memory issues or physical limitations. Rather than telling them they should bathe, dress up, and come out for breakfast, allow them to finish one step at a time before informing them of the next.
Encourage Independence
Caregivers can also encourage independence by providing support while allowing seniors time to do things independently. Let them try a task first before rushing to help.
Provide Physical Assistance
Seniors may need physical assistance in some circumstances. Caregivers can try guiding seniors through each step of the process. They can also help with activities that require more strength or agility than the senior may have available for self-care, such as bathing someone who may have difficulty raising their arms.
Offer Praise and Support
Lastly, caregivers should offer praise and support throughout the entire process. This helps boost morale and encourages continued good practices in personal hygiene among elders.
Get Additional Guidance From Senior Helpers of Dayton
Personal hygiene is just one of the many challenges seniors and their caregivers face. If you need additional help and guidance on how to handle depression, lethargy, or any personal care issues in seniors, Senior Helpers of Dayton can help.
We have a team of professional experts dedicated to developing an individualized plan that will enhance seniors' quality of life while providing you with peace of mind. We cover seniors within the Dayton, Huber Heights, Beavercreek, Kettering, Oakwood, and Centerville areas. Contact us today to know more.