How to Support Autonomous Living for Elderly Relatives

Elderly relatives wanting to retain independence is a tale as old as time. It is their right, after all, and facing the big life changes that come along when health issues start to take hold can be a shock and a big adjustment. So there is a certain responsibility to help maintain as much autonomy as is practical for as long as possible.

Housekeeping Staff

Cleaning a property becomes more difficult in old age, especially if mobility issues are thrown into the mix. There are all sorts of detrimental conditions that limit movement capacity that elderly people are prone to, like arthritis. Not only this, but the physical demands of cleaning an entire house are often out of reach too. So hiring some general cleaners or housekeeping staff to do the deep cleaning, dusting, changing the linens, and making sure there is nothing moldy in the fridge is a solution that a lot of people use.

Travel Assistance

Traveling around is one thing that becomes increasingly more difficult with old age. Mobility struggles, tiredness, and a lack of confidence all contribute to increased isolation. That is why medical transport services exist, to provide general support and medical assistance, if needed, on flights, regardless of destination. If an elderly person with medical needs, for example, diabetes or dementia, needs a travel companion, then companies like the one linked above provide just that in the form of trained nurses to stay with them for the duration of the journey.

Meal or Groceries Delivery

Cooking can also become a challenge but there are plenty of solutions. Meal delivery services deliver balanced meals for the week. These are stored in the fridge or freezer and come equipped with easy-to-follow cooking instructions. Some services even take it one step further and cook the meals for their subscribers too, by helping to put them into the oven and making sure they come out on time and reach a plate.

Renovations

Instead of displacing the senior citizen to a place that meets their need, why not make their usual residence up to scratch for whatever they require? It will require money and management, but often the longer a person is able to remain in their own environment, the better their mental well-being and quality of life. Installing a bathroom downstairs or a bedroom as well can help combat potential injuries on the stairs for example.

Local Groups

Find a local group with shared interests to keep the brain focused and engaged. This can be anything from old hobbies to pure socialization, the point is to stay active. Elderly people often feel isolated so ensuring they have some form of social accountability is a strong method for supporting independence and brain strength.

Conclusion

Even when independence is not an option, there are small things to be done that can help a person feel like themselves in all contexts. Growing older is not easy, but it does not have to be an isolating experience.

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Libby Austin

Libby Austin, the creative force behind alltheragefaces.com, is a dynamic and versatile writer known for her engaging and informative articles across various genres. With a flair for captivating storytelling, Libby's work resonates with a diverse audience, blending expertise with a relatable voice.
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