Seniors often face certain challenges and obstacles as they age. Some older adults also have more unique concerns specific to their own life situations. Regardless of the things that are worrying the older loved one in your life, it’s important to find out what these concerns are so they can be addressed and reduced as much as possible. Below, you’ll find fears that are common among seniors and some tips for addressing them.
Increased Loneliness
Many older adults lose friends and spouses as they get older. Grown children often move away and become involved with their own lives. Chronic illnesses and mobility issues can also affect quality of life for seniors and limit social interactions. If you’re noticing signs of depression related to loneliness, help your loved one out by:
• Spending more time with him or her
• Encouraging volunteering or involvement with local charities
• Finding clubs your parent can join, either in person or online
Seniors who are managing the loss of loved ones may need someone to talk to and share their feelings with. For families living in Edmonton, home care service can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At InCasa Home Care Services, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
Financial Difficulty
If CPP benefits have become your loved one’s primary source of income, he or she may have concerns about maintaining his or her preferred lifestyle. Even with retirement savings, there can be fears about making the money last. Suggest a meeting with a financial advisor specializing in senior-specific financial concerns to help your loved one wisely budget, invest, and plan.
Personal Safety Risks
Issues with hearing, vision, mobility, and chronic conditions can make seniors feel less safe in their own homes. They may also develop a fear of falling or not having access to help when it’s needed. Fears of this nature may be addressed or mitigated with:
• Medical/personal emergency alert devices
• Stair lift systems
• Appropriate assistance devices, such as walkers and canes
• Cataract surgery, hearing aids, and similar solutions
Loss of Dignity
Some seniors have fears about losing their dignity as they age and need more assistance with daily tasks, especially ones involving dressing, bathing, and other personal grooming and hygiene tasks. Address this concern by giving your loved one as much privacy as possible to maintain his or her dignity and self-esteem.
Memory Problems
While memory loss sometimes occurs naturally with age, it’s a problem that often raises concerns about the possibility of dementia. Reduce this fear for your loved one by encouraging a visit to the doctor. Creating memory books, using reminder cues like Post-it Notes and phone apps, and playing memory-based games are some of the ways cognitive issues associated with aging can be addressed.
Health-Related Issues
From physical deterioration to the development of spine-related aches and pains, there are many health issues that can cause seniors added stress and anxiety. Remind your loved one to take preventive measures such as getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, taking calcium and vitamin D supplements to maintain bone health, and getting recommended screenings and physical exams.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to InCasa Home Care Services, a leading provider of at-home care. InCasa provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Loss of Independence
According to a survey by the Disabled Living Foundation, the majority of seniors fear losing their independence more than death. Another survey by the AARP found most older adults hope to remain living at home. Reduce fears related to a loss of independence by making adjustments to your loved one’s home to make it more accessible, providing the type of assistance that’s needed, and exploring options with in-home care.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional in-home care. Edmonton families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. InCasa Home Care Services will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call us today at 587-609-6854 to learn more about our personalized care plans.
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