Everyone has mixed feelings about getting older. While, on the one hand, we all want to enjoy life to the fullest and to stay with the people we love for as long as possible; on the other hand, we might feel a little nervous at the idea of counting our grey hair, becoming frail and even potentially losing our ability to move and go wherever you want. The dilemma of growing old! But, nobody can live longer and expect to remain just as youthful and agile as a 20-year-old!
Going grey with a winning smile
Society’s approach to 60 plus has a long history of promoting care in a recluse environment, whether families choose to care for their aging relatives at home or whether they opt for a senior care home. Ultimately, while we all have a duty of care towards our seniors, there’s no denying that some caring strategies might affect their mental health and life satisfaction significantly. Indeed, when growing old is the natural order of things, maintaining your independence is a luxury that is too often forgotten! Here’s how to help relatives stay independent for longer.
Reclusion affects their mental and physical health
Many seniors resent moving back with their relatives, as it can make them feel insecure and dependent, which can accelerate the inevitable degenerative process of old age. However, it can be equally destructive to maintain their independence if they live far away from their family or need to drive long distances to stay in touch. You can, however, propose an alternative; namely, suggesting moving in a property that is close to you – without sharing the same house. Relocation can help you to care for your relative without limiting their need for independence. But more importantly, you can help your senior to integrate into your community and stay active without being alone.
Finding a monitored environment
Not every senior can avoid health issue. On the contrary, it’s not uncommon for today’s seniors to stay active until they hit significant health obstacles, such as a heart attack or a stroke, which completely transform their independent lifestyle. If this is the case, you want to suggest an assisted living place that respects both their health requirements and their social needs, such as McKnight Place, where professional nurses can look after each resident while the community encourages independence and enriching activities. Ultimately, your relatives can join an environment of same-minded residents when they want company, but they also have the opportunity to manage their day-to-day life as they wish.
Don’t let them believe that old means useless
If you’re an enthusiastic pasta gourmet, you’ve probably come across the Instagram account, Pasta Grannies, which showcases the skills of elderly Italian ladies in the kitchen. The idea is simple: Being old doesn’t mean you can’t teach the younger generations a thing or two! As a result, more and more associations are throwing multi-generational classes that give seniors the leading role. From learning how to bake your bread at home to discover the joys of crochet, there’s a lot you could learn from grandpa and grandma.
The secret of living old and happy is to stay in charge of your life until the last moment. For seniors, solitude, health issues, and self-confidence problems can get in the way. However, you can work together to help them to overcome their obstacles and stay independent for as long as possible.
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