Making Life Easier for Your Older Loved Ones*

Getting older can be a struggle; people don’t enjoy not being able to do all the things that they used to, and it can take quite a lot of adjustments to their lifestyles and impact their family members. However, with a strong and loving family around them; there’s no reason that an elderly person can’t live a happy and fulfilling life with the right care. You can always help you parents or grandparents by remaining vigilant so that you can spot any changes in their demeanor or health that you feel need attention, and the festive season is the perfect time to start giving back.

Spotting any issues quickly will ensure that your senior loved one receives prompt and appropriate treatment or medication so that they can continue a happy retirement. The following are some things that you should be keeping an eye on regarding your elderly relatives so that you can help them seek the right advice and care.

Can They Make Decisions For Themselves?
It’s not something we ever want to think about, our parents and grandparents getting older, but it’s part of being a responsible and loving family member. My Grandpa passed a few years back leaving my Nanny alone for the first time since she was 17. He dealt with everything and she had no idea how to do anything “adult” for herself. It was decided, with her consent that my mother would have Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) to help with the financial decisions as she gets older. My mum now organises all my Nanny’s finances and will continue to do so for the rest of her life. This way if something happens and she’s unable to make any decisions for herself, my mother is legally allowed to do it for her. If you’d like some more information of LPAs, Wafer Phillip have a great page all about it.

Can They Remember Clearly?
Everyone forgets things now and again; it’s not just part of getting old, it’s part of a busy lifestyle. However, when it comes to your elderly relatives, you may want to pay close attention if their forgetful behavior is being problematic and a frequent occurrence. As the brain ages; it can still remain vigilant and quick. Therefore, if your loved one seems confused and upset by their inability to remember things, or it has become apparent that there’s a problem; you must be sensitive and encourage them to seek a professional opinion.

If the abilities of your elderly loved one’s brain are diminishing; you’ll need to look into care homes and appropriate services so that you can ensure they’re receiving proper attention and treatment. Hiring an expert team to look after your senior family member will also give you the peace of mind that all is being done to give them the best life possible. You can read more about this here. Try not to put off seeking medical advice and assistance; the sooner everyone can get into a routine, the more successful any changes and adjustments will be.

Can They Move Well?
You would never want your family to be in pain; however, many elderly people will try to hide the pain they’re experiencing and any mobility problems to avoid worrying their loved ones. Therefore, if you spot the discomfort on someone’s face as they get up from a seat, or notice how difficult walking has become; it’s time to take action.

Encourage your older relative to visit a healthcare professional so they can provide pain relief and physical rehabilitation. You can always join your family member on regular walks and activities if they’ve been prescribed exercise to help with their muscles and joints. Don’t let them suffer in silence, and try to notice all the changes.

Can They Breathe Properly?
Your senior family member’s inability to walk may not be due to poor joint and limb health; it might be more serious and as a result of breathing difficulties. The heart, circulation, and the lungs are vital components to a healthy life, so if somebody’s aren’t working properly, it’s a serious issue.

Make sure that your senior family members are visiting their doctors regularly and taking all medication provided. Encouraging and helping your family to look after their health will ensure they have a bright future ahead.