When people get older, they tend to need more help. Now, this is not true for everyone, but it is true for the majority. There are some older people who are still fully independent, can do everything on their own and do not currently need anyone to help them. However, as we get older, our body and our mind declines to a certain degree, and there is likely going to come a time where some sort of assistance is needed. That’s what we’re going to be taking a look at now. We’re going to focus on specifically what kind of care your elderly relative may need, so that you can look into options when necessary.
Full-Time Care
First, we’re going to start by looking into full-time care. This is the top end of the scale, and is for elderly people who need assistance with pretty much everything, or at least things that are important in everyday life. If your elderly relative is not able to do things like prepare meals for themselves, dress themselves, walk around their own home, or generally take care of themselves, then full-time care is going to be the best option.
This means that they will have someone around at all hours of day and night, so that if something does go wrong, they have help. It’s important that you choose the right full-time care option for your specific relative though, so do not rush through this decision.
Hearing Assistance
Another thing to consider is whether your relatives are losing their hearing. The hearing declines with age and you only get one set of ears. It is essential your elderly relatives are looking after their hearing and not exposing themselves to continuous loud noises. If hearing loss is sudden then it can come as quite a shock to everyone involved. Check out a guide on coping with sudden hearing loss to find out more. You can also make an appointment for them with a hearing specialist, this will tell you what type of hearing loss they have and the best way to manage it.
Changes To Their Mobility
Over time, you may begin to notice that your elderly relatives aren’t as steady on their feet as they used to be. This can happen as bones and joints get weaker, which happens naturally with age. It can result in falls and broken bones that you can’t predict will happen, you may need to watch your relatives more closely than ever. You can get help with this, including using support frames or even a walking stick when they are on their feet.
Speak to an occupational therapist who will be more knowledgeable about how to handle these sorts of things. They will also be able to recommend aids and support that they can use.
So there you have it, you now have a greater idea and understanding of how to care for your elderly relatives. It can be tricky to get to grips with everything they need, and you must not be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
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