When older adults reach their golden years, they require extra care to lead a safe, healthy, and happy life. Some seniors live in assisted care communities, while others move in with their loved ones or hire in-house caregivers. Regardless of the choice an older adult makes, seniors deserve a certain level of care and attention.

Becoming a caregiver for a senior citizen can be challenging, particularly if one has to work and handle other family responsibilities. Luckily, there are some guidelines one can consider to ensure their elderly loved one lives as independently as they can, and still enjoys their golden years with family. Here are tips to consider when supporting a senior.

Avoid Social Isolation and Loneliness

Seniors tend to spend more time alone when other family members are busy with work and school. This can lead to social isolation or make them feel lonely. However, assisted living facilities have competent staff to provide support for daily senior needs without overlooking their social life. So, anyone who takes on the informal caregiving role should not neglect social engagement.

Loneliness and increased social isolation cause health problems like cognitive decline, depression, and heart disease. Family members should work together to ensure the elderly adult stays socially connected. This can be done by scheduling regular video chats and phone calls and ensuring someone is home to keep the senior company, even if it means hiring a caregiver whenever everyone is busy.

It is also essential to encourage seniors to socialize with others, provided they have similar interests. This can be done through joining a volunteer organization, a garden club, or a walking group.

Do Not Compromise on the Diet

Another essential aspect to consider is healthy eating. Seniors need a healthy diet to strengthen their bones and support their muscles to improve their balance and independence. Their meals should contain whole grains, lean proteins, fresh vegetables and fruits, and healthy fats. The nutrients can boost immunity and reduce the risks of common health issues like stroke, obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.

But how can a caregiver incorporate a healthy diet into their loved one’s routines? They can start by bringing them to the store when shopping, so they can help choose the nutritious foods they like. Families should also discuss recipes with the seniors to determine their suitability and how to improve them.

For instance, it may be better to replace olive oil with butter or choose sour cream over yoghurt. It may also be essential to take mineral and vitamin supplements. These simple replacements can improve the health of seniors and the entire family.

Plan Regular Check-ups With a Physician

Seniors need to get regular medical examinations even if they do not feel unwell. Checking their overall health annually or after a few months can reduce the risk factors for serious diseases. For instance, medical professionals monitor cholesterol levels and blood pressure to minimize the risk of chronic conditions. This procedure also helps catch signs of disease early, improving the chances of getting effective treatment.

Family members should encourage the elderly senior to visit a doctor regularly and even reach out to the physician when they feel pain or notice new symptoms. All appointments should be marked in the calendar so everyone in the family can remember. It is also important to accompany the elderly loved one to the hospital for the appointment and help them manage medications if necessary.

With these guidelines, being an informal caregiver should not be hard. However, if it becomes difficult to handle these responsibilities, the family can still seek professional assistance. They can hire an in-house caregiver or move their loved one into an assisted living facility.

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