Dignity in Old Age: Encouraging Independence in Seniors

Posted by oysterbayseniorcampus on August 28th, 2019

Old age can be a difficult time. After living happy and fulfilling lives, the elderly suddenly need to depend on others more and more. Whether you're taking care of your senior loved ones or looking for home care in New York City, remember that maintaining their independence and self-esteem is just as important as their physical health. Below are a few ways to do that.

Use Assistive Technology

Technology has steadily improved the quality of people's lives. These days, it's a lot easier to set up any space to be accessible to the elderly. You can install hall railings, raised toilets, and grab bars. You can also start using shower chairs and purchase a stairlift. The little changes you make can have a huge difference.

You can also take the time to show them how to use phones and tablets so they can entertain themselves and call their friends and family.

Let Them Socialize

Old age can make people feel lonely and isolated. It's important to show them they can still have some fun to improve their physical and mental health. Have them engage in different social activities like dancing, aerobics, board games, or anything else they might be interested in.

Social interactions give them the validation they need. Having a network of acquaintances and friends who share their interests can give them purpose.

Let Them Do Things on Their Own

While you may have the urge to assist them whenever you can, sometimes it's neither needed nor wanted. Give them the freedom to do tasks on their own. Have an honest conversation about how their abilities may have changed, and let them set boundaries on how they'd like to be supported.

Letting them do chores and activities on their own can give them something to do and curb their boredom. They can start a vegetable garden, do some laundry, or cook a few meals. As long as their bodies can handle it, it's good to give seniors something to do.

No matter how hard the task may seem, empowering your senior loved ones is a rewarding experience. Whether you arrange for home care in New York City or take care of them on your own, ensure that they have as much independence as their health will allow them.