Tag: Home Care in Summerlin NV

It’s never easy to talk about some of the bigger changes that come with aging. In so many cases, seniors worry that their health and changing needs might mean that they have to leave their homes and give up their independence. Solutions like home care services can help so much, but first families have to have an open conversation.

Choose a Comfortable Moment

There may never be one perfect moment to talk about elder care services, but there are definitely times when it’s obvious that the conversation won’t go well. Ideally, everyone involved in the conversation should be relaxed and in a mood to talk openly. If there are a lot of distractions going on, choosing another time is probably a good idea.

Offer Lots of Reassurance

Part of the reason this conversation can be so uncomfortable is that seniors may worry about what it means. They could fear that they’re going to have to move or face other big changes that they won’t enjoy and don’t want. Reassuring seniors that they’re not going to be forced to do anything they don’t want to do is such an important part of the process.

Talk About What Home Care Does

Often seniors resist the idea of home care or don’t want to talk about it because they don’t realize what it does. The first fact to share is that home care providers aren’t there to take over the situation and order seniors around. They are there to offer just the help that seniors need. There are plenty of ways professional caregivers support aging adults and yet still allow them to maintain their independence and autonomy.

Ask About Seniors’ Plans

If family caregivers haven’t talked about seniors’ plans for the future, now is the time. Do seniors want to age in place? Do they want to live with family members? Or maybe they want to wait and eventually find an assisted living community they like. The best way for family caregivers to help seniors meet those goals and put those plans to work is to know they exist.

Focus on Independence

Above all, seniors tend to respond best to the things that support their independence, both now and in the future. Home care providers can do exactly that, since the help they offer can change gradually over time as seniors’ needs change. It can help a lot to remind seniors that the goal is to support them in their goals, particularly the ones related to maintaining their independence. Taking away control means that seniors are more likely to resist, even when they do know they need help.

These types of conversations aren’t necessarily going to be handled all in one round. They often have to occur over time and tackle various aspects of what’s happening each time. Home care services are something that seniors can try out in the meantime and get to know. As they get more comfortable with all of this, they may be more open to how home care providers can work to support them.

If you are considering home care in Summerlin, NV for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Summerlin. 702-800-4616

The likelihood of loneliness and depression increases with age, which can present serious obstacles to mental and emotional health. A number of things, including losing loved ones, health problems, and fewer social connections, might make these emotions worse. Seniors can, however, actively address these problems and have happy, connected lives if they are equipped with the appropriate strategies and have support from home care.

Keep Socializing

While it might be difficult, especially at first, it’s important for seniors to keep up with social ties. Home care and loved ones can encourage seniors to maintain regular phone conversations, video chats, or in-person visits with friends and other family members. Additionally, they may enjoy meeting new people by attending community events, going to the senior center, or even volunteering.

Focus on Physical Activity

Exercise has been shown to elevate mood and reduce depressive symptoms. This is thanks to the rush of endorphins, which are naturally occurring mood enhancers that are released during exercise. Engaging in social activities such as walking, swimming, or senior-specific group exercise courses might help counteract loneliness by fostering social connection. This is also good for seniors’ overall health, as they should shoot for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days a week. While they may feel shy starting out, home care can help them take the first steps.

Enjoy Hobbies and Interests

It’s easier to socialize when there are a group of like-minded people in the setting. With this in mind, seniors should be encouraged to seek out ways they can enjoy their hobbies and socialize at the same time, such as with a quilting group, book club, or gardening club. The same goes for their interests. If they like music, they should attend the local concert in town. The more they branch out of their comfort zone, the more their depression subsides.

Consider Getting a Pet

A quick cure for loneliness or depression is to add a pet into the mix. Pets offer company, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote exercise—especially if they’re a dog that needs frequent walks. However, it’s important to keep seniors’ budget and physical capabilities in mind when considering if they should get a pet and what type. If it is determined that owning a pet won’t work, they may enjoy volunteering at a shelter instead.

Engage Mentally

Feelings of depression can be avoided by keeping the mind active. Reading, solving puzzles, playing games, learning a new language, and engaging in other cognitively stimulating activities might help divert the mind from unpleasant thoughts. For seniors, they should schedule time each day to engage their minds. Even better? Home care and loved ones can encourage them to continually try new things, which not only keeps them engaged but also reduces boredom.

Seek Professional Advice

Even with the best of intentions, depression symptoms can occasionally linger. In these situations, getting expert assistance is essential. Senior-specific counseling, therapy, or support groups can offer invaluable coping mechanisms for depression and loneliness. Also, with the rise in technology, many therapists now offer virtual appointments, which can be easier for seniors.

Senior depression and loneliness can be avoided with a proactive strategy that incorporates mental, physical, and social stimulation. By utilizing the tips above and getting support from home care and loved ones, seniors can actively work to reduce these feelings and improve their overall health and well-being.

Sources:
https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/depression/depression-in-older-adults
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/depression-in-elderly

If you are considering home care in Summerlin, NV for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Summerlin. 702-800-4616