The aging process can be difficult, but this doesn’t mean seniors have to lose their dignity. Caregivers can help their loved ones maintain their sense of independence and self-respect, even in uncomfortable situations. Here are a few ways to help senior citizens maintain their dignity.
Let Them Make Their Own Choices
When seniors are allowed to make their own choices, it promotes a sense of independence. These choices can be big or small, from where they want to live to what color shirt they want to wear on a particular day. When possible, allow your loved one to give input on the type and extent of care he or she receives. Seniors who feel like they have control over their lives are more likely to be mentally and physically healthy.
Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust Roseville elderly care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.
Don’t Help When You Don’t Need To
If your loved one is still capable of performing basic tasks, he or she should be allowed to do so. Step in and assist if your loved one is having difficulty, but you shouldn’t try to do everything for him or her. By letting your loved one manage daily tasks independently, you can help him or her maintain a sense of normalcy. Performing routine tasks on a daily basis gives structure to the day, which is helpful for seniors with Alzheimer’s.
Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Roseville, CA, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity.
Be Tactful About Hygiene
Many seniors are hesitant to ask for help with grooming and hygiene tasks. To ensure your loved one maintains dignity, approach the issue with tact and compassion. If your loved one has hygiene preferences, from a favorite soap to a set time he or she likes to shower, try to accommodate them. If you make the grooming process as familiar as possible, your loved one may be less embarrassed. To maintain modesty while helping your loved one bathe, cover him or her with a towel when possible. You should also take the appropriate safety measures while helping your loved one take baths or showers. Safety equipment like grab bars and shower chairs minimizes the risk of injury and speeds up the process.
Suggest Pain Management Techniques
An important part of living with dignity is maintaining a good quality of life. Everyone’s circumstances are different, and optimal quality of life for a senior with Alzheimer’s is different than for an older adult with limited mobility. Pain management is a key part of maintaining a high quality of life, but for seniors who have difficulty verbalizing their needs, their pain sometimes goes unnoticed. When possible, try to identify and remedy any pain your loved one is experiencing. Look for pain-related behaviors like nighttime restlessness, distorted facial expressions, and labored breathing. If you suspect your loved one is experiencing regular pain, consult a doctor. Beginning an effective pain relief regimen may enhance your loved one’s quality of life and sense of dignity.
If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care Roseville families can rely on. All of our caregivers are bonded, licensed, and insured, there are no hidden fees, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts. To talk to one of our professional Care Managers, give us a call at (916) 226-3737 today.