Encourage elderly friends and family to stay active.

It can be difficult to watch those we love getting older, especially if we’re worried about changes to their health and well-being. However, understanding how to support them will not only enable you to spend more quality time together but will also ensure they receive the care they deserve.

With that in mind, here are some top tips for caring for an elderly relative.

Stay up to date with their medical needs 

Helping your senior relative manage their health is a great way to provide them with continuous support. For example, it means you can remind them to take any medication each day, or ensure they manage their prescription properly. If they are diagnosed with a health condition, do some research around it so that you stay informed and are able to help

Encourage them to stay active

Encouraging seniors to stay active is great for both their physical and mental health, with many studies defining physical activity as a “protective factor for noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes and a delay in the onset of dementia.” Fortunately, there are many ways to stay active while aging, such as going for short, daily walks. There are also plenty of simple yet effective exercises for seniors which can be carried out from the comfort of their own home.

Consider moving to a retirement village 

Many adults count down to their retirement, as it’s finally a time when you can kick back and relax. Living in a retirement village or senior apartments will enable your senior relative to embrace the joys of old age while also receiving access to additional support or healthcare assistance when they need it. As many seniors also experience loneliness, living in this kind of facility can also provide them with a sense of companionship.

Manage their finances 

Another way in which you can care for an aging relative is by helping them to manage their finances. For example, you should ensure they are receiving the appropriate funding support, especially if they need a little more medical attention than when they were younger. This way, their healthcare needs are addressed without them having to worry about how they will pay for it later. Helping them to manage their finances could also mean that you find ways to help them save money. For example, if they are still driving, you can help them switch to senior drivers car insurance which is more cost-effective.

Spend time with them 

Sometimes, the best thing you can do to care for a senior relative is simply spend time with them. This can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, which if unaddressed can lead to a range of mental and physical health complaints. Furthermore, it can help them to feel valued, loved, and respected. With years of life experience under their belt, they’re also an invaluable resource, whether you’re looking for advice or want to hear stories about the good old days! As a result, you should always make time for them in your schedule. 

Written by Contributing Author

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