Supporting an ageing loved one can have its difficulties. However, those who once looked after you with such care might find themselves in the position to need the favour returned.
When looking after an ageing loved one, there are little things that can make a big difference. Whether that helps to enhance their quality of life, their emotional well-being and dignity.
Let’s take a look at those little differences that can be made when supporting an ageing loved one.
Upholding their autonomy and dignity
Maintaining a sense of control is vital for mental health in general, even when physical control diminishes.
For your ageing loved one, having that dignity and autonomy in their body is important, so the longer that they can be in control of their bodies, the better.
Instead of telling them they have to wear a specific outfit or eat this specific meal plan, try to encourage them to make their own decisions when it comes to what they do with their bodies daily. This will help them feel more secure and in control of themselves for as long as they’re physically and mentally able to.
It’s important to make your presence known before walking in on them, whether that be in their bedroom or bathroom. Knocking before entering is polite. Finally, you should keep them in the loop with any household decisions.
Replacing their dishwasher without telling them or making changes to the home without warning can be shocking.
Prioritising quality conversation
Conversations are important to prioritise when it comes to maintaining the quality and care within them. It can very easily turn into a transactional conversation when you’re checking if they’ve taken their pills or when it was their last shower.
Remember that they have a life that exists beyond just their physical and mental aspects, so listen more than you talk and reminisce on fond memories to keep those conversations personal and enjoyable for the loved one.
Try to limit your distractions, too, when it comes to supporting your loved ones, especially with phones being so dominant in day-to-day life.
Creating comfort and familiarity
Small adjustments to their environment can often be a welcome change, but again, it’s always good to keep them in the loop.
Think about how you could better manage the lighting and temperature of the home, especially as older people tend to get colder more easily and may need brighter lights for reading.
Bring some nature in for the purpose of boosting one’s mood and also adding some colour to the space.
Injecting spontaneity and joy
The routine of home care may often feel like a monotonous one for everyone involved in the loved one’s care. That’s why it’s good to shift up the day-to-day activities with something more exciting.
Look at planning a mini outing on occasion, or plan something indoors if they’re not able to be as mobile as they used to be.
These are some of the little things that can make a big difference to the care of a loved one, especially as they get older.
