How to Look After Loved Ones When They Age

It is never easy to watch a loved one’s health decline. Unfortunately, as people grow older, they may develop various medical issues that can affect their mobility, energy levels, or cognitive function.

As a result, they might become increasingly reliant on others to perform everyday tasks, attend appointments, and move from A to B. If you want to provide as much help as possible to an elderly relative or friend, read these top tips on how to look after loved ones when they age.

Ask How You Can Help

Your loved one might struggle with household chores, grocery shopping, or cooking. Yet, they might not want to ask for help when struggling each day. To ensure they don’t suffer in silence, you should ask how you can help them. 

For example, they might need you to:

• Pick up groceries

• Mow the lawn

• Make property repairs

• Vacuum

• Clean surface

• Wash, dry, and fold laundry

Remember, your loved one might be embarrassed to ask for help, so they might reject your offer. Reassure them that you are happy to help and they aren’t a burden.

Talk to Your Loved One

Growing older is bound to weigh heavily on your loved one’s mind. Rather than making decisions for them with your nearest and dearest, you must talk to a relative about their declining health. 

They may already have a care plan in place if they should struggle with mobility and/or cognitive function. Also, they might feel more relaxed knowing you will hold their hand throughout the years, which will make the aging process less daunting.

Consider a Care Home

A minor mobility issue or cognitive decline might not affect a loved one’s independence or function at present, but it could one day in the future. Therefore, it is important to review the different options available if they require support.

For example, if your aging relative or friend requires help with washing, dressing, taking medication, or other assistance, they could enjoy a better quality of life at a care home. While the thought might seem scary, your loved one could feel right at home at a luxury assisted living facility.

Learn About Their Health Condition(s)

As your loved one grows older, they might suffer from various health conditions, such as arthritis, dementia, or osteoporosis. To ensure they remain in good health for as long as possible, you must learn about the different foods they will need to eat, activities they should perform, and medications they must take each day. Don’t forget to learn about their risk factors, too. For example, those living with dementia must avoid dehydration and treat water infections as soon as possible.

Improving your understanding of a loved one’s health condition(s) could help you make more informed decisions regarding their diet, lifestyle, and daily support. It might also help to attend medical appointments with your aging relative or friend, which will allow you to ask questions and learn about their current or future challenges.

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Written for the Life According to Steph audience by Maggie Hammond: Proud mama to two little people, and has one too many furry friends. Passionate about alternative medicine, education, the great outdoors and animal welfare.