Sooner or later, we will all grow old and when we do, we would certainly hope that we would still be able to care for ourselves. However, for some, that is simply not the case. As we age, we generally become less effective physically as well as mentally. While some of us would still get by on our own, some senior citizens require special care, whether it is due to a degree of loss of control over bodily functions or mental afflictions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Some of us may have to care for our own aging parents in times to come. Senior care can be a daunting task and knowing what to expect may be of help.
Knowledge of Their Specific Needs
It is important for you to take the time to know and understand the special needs they require based any diseases they have. This will allow you to anticipate their needs ahead of time (saves you some trouble) as well as allow you to care for them with more compassion because of the increased understanding. For example, if the senior under your care suffers from dementia, learn to recognize the behavior and how to deal with it or know when to seek professional help. Learning basic checking of vital signs is also beneficial.
Assistance in Day to Day Tasks
You will be doing for them some of what your parents did for you when you before at some point in your childhood. These include daily chores like housekeeping, laundry, preparing their meals, grocery shopping and any other errands. They may also need to be reminded to take their medication.
Companionship and Activities
Very often overlooked is the fact that many seniors long deeply for companionship and are often bored. They are human, too, and they crave for love and activity just as much as we do, if not more. In your care, include suitable activities to be done together with them, like a walk in the park or at the beach. If it is possible, perhaps even some board games to keep their minds active. It is also important that they get the exercise they require, which can be included as an activity together.
However, as people get busier and busier, it is often difficult to find the time to care for your own elderly. To ensure that your beloved elderly get the care they need, you can turn to organizations, like Sunshine Adult Day Care Center based in Bergenfield, NJ, provide senior care services. Aides are dispatched to care for the elderly in the comfort of their own homes so they do not have to be away from their loved ones.
