We tend to lead relatively busy lives. Alongside our hectic work schedules, busy social calendars, and gym routines, we barely find a moment for ourselves. However, it’s extremely important that we spare time to keep an eye on the health, happiness, and overall well being of the elderly individuals in our lives. After all, chances are that they’ve already kept enough of an eye on us over the years! Here are just a couple of areas that you should focus on in particular.
Guaranteeing High Quality Healthcare
For the majority of us, doctor’s appointments tend to be few and far between. We only pop in when we are experiencing an occasional health complaint. However, as people age, they tend to experience more health problems and consequently require more regular care. However, the elderly tend to avoid trips to the doctors or miss appointments, which can have seriously detrimental consequences on their overall health and well being. Every year, thousands of elderly people miss their scheduled medical appointments as they cannot actually get there. They may feel uncomfortable driving or lack confidence on the road, but they may also be hesitant to take public transport. However, many don’t want to “make a nuisance” of themselves by asking for help.
This is where they can benefit from respite care. These schemes will see medics and companions visit your elderly loved one in the comfort of their own home, rather than expecting them to get up and actively head out to seek help. Alternatively, you could accompany your loved one to their appointments. If you drive you could drop them off, or if you don’t drive you could simply accompany them on the bus or train. Just remember to ensure that they can maintain their privacy by going into their appointment and speaking to the doctor alone unless they request that you join them in their consultation.
Ensuring They Have a Good Diet
While the majority of us find difficulty in incorporating all of the recommended vitamins and minerals into our diets, this tends to be our own fault. We will generally opt for convenience over nutrition and choose takeaway meals or fast food over home-cooked dishes. But for the elderly, an incomplete diet often falls down to more complex reasons than sheer laziness. They may rely on canned or frozen food, as they are unable to head out to the store as frequently as they might like to. Conditions such as arthritis can also make chopping fruit and vegetables a difficult and painful task. Bearing this in mind, it’s not all too surprising that malnutrition is relatively prevalent in elderly members of society. But there are things that you can do to guarantee a good diet for your loved ones. When possible, offer to take them to the supermarket, where they will be able to stock up on everything that they could possibly need to make delicious meals. Another option is meal services which deliver wholesome, ready-made meals to your loved one’s front door on a daily basis.
These are just a couple of areas that you can focus on, but focusing on them can help to ensure that your loved ones are well and well fed at all times!
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
