Foster senior independence with these tips.
Throughout the different stages of our lives, independence means different things. Earlier in life, we face milestones such as moving into our own homes, getting married, or even simply completing a difficult task on our own. In our later years, senior independence is of utmost importance to allow us to maintain our sense of dignity and purpose – and to enable us to continue to live at home throughout aging.
Providing care for older loved ones at home can be complex, involving physical, mental, and social facets. Family caregivers may discover the need to increase their responsibility level, as they become more involved in the daily tasks this role requires. In the process, balancing meeting care needs with fostering senior independence often becomes a challenge.
Our aging parents have done so much for us over the years, so when they need assistance, it’s natural to want to do anything we can to help. However, although our efforts are undoubtedly well-intended, it’s easy to shift from supporting the seniors we love to taking over and doing everything for them. This type of caregiving can often lead to a negative impact on the self-sufficiency and freedom seniors need and deserve.
Our aging care experts suggest keeping the following points in mind:
- Independence enables seniors to continue contributing to society and to feel good about the difference they are making in the community and world around them.
- Being able to accomplish tasks independently gives seniors a sense of fulfillment and meaning, both of which are incredibly important in aging.
- Senior independence helps alleviate discouragement and feelings of uselessness, even in the face of illness, injury, or simply the normal challenges associated with growing older.
Imagine switching roles with your older loved one. How would it make you feel if someone took over tasks that you were capable of completing yourself? Caregivers can be cheerleaders for accomplishments, whether goals in recovery or life. A vital component to independence, happiness, and acceptance of care is to let seniors have control through choices and mutual goal setting, and stepping in kindly and professionally only if there were a safety issue.
Empowering a senior you love to continue living as independently as possible is easier when partnering with our in-home care professionals, who are expertly trained and experienced in helping without hindering.
SYNERGY HomeCare, the leading provider of home care in the Gold Coast area, is available to perform a free in-home assessment, during which we gather information about the challenges being experienced by the senior. We then create a customized plan of care to provide just the right level of support needed – and we take time to nurture senior independence every step of the way.
Call us to schedule your free consultation today or to allow us to answer any questions you may have at (773) 868-3183.
