Vulnerability in the Elderly
The elderly can become vulnerable when they advance in age and they are no longer able to do many of the same daily activities they can no longer perform. If the elder has always been at home and independent, it can be a difficult transition when they must begin considering the choices of going to a nursing home or allowing caregivers into their home to assist them. These changes can affect their self-esteem.
Adjusting to Losing Independence
It takes time for seniors to adjust to a new way of living when they believe they are losing their independence, and they realize that someone else will be handling their care. Eyesight changes, fragile bones and other health issues can drastically affect the way that seniors are able to move around their home. Their failing health can affect their self-esteem. It is important that their self-esteem is built up, and there are several things that family members and caregivers can do help the elderly.
How to Improve Self Esteem When Providing Elderly Care
- Get the senior’s opinion on their elderly care. Instead of making decisions for them, ask them about the type of assistance they need.
- Give them tasks to complete. The tasks should not be time consuming or complicated. For example, you can ask them to fold laundry.
- Find out the types of hobbies they enjoy and set up activities around these hobbies.
- Ask them about their past. Look through photographs with them as they talk about their history.
Assistance to Improve Self Esteem When Providing Elderly Care
As seniors get older they may need assistance with elderly care. This care is not designed to make them feel as if they no longer have an opinion; it is designed to give them the assistance they need to live a more fulfilling life. Contact a Houston In-Home Health Care agency today to find out more.