It’s no secret that we experience certain types of decline as we age. Later in life, the body can’t regenerate as quickly and easily as it once did. Muscle mass begins to decrease, and bones lose some of their density. Joints start to break down, causing stiffness, swelling, and pain. People’s hearing and vision tend to decline as they grow older, and balance and coordination deteriorate. Memory and cognitive function can suffer as well.
Almost everyone suffers from those issues at some point. Many seniors say that they’re not the worst aspects of aging, though. For quite a few, the most disagreeable element of growing older is the loss of independence. The more their health declines, the more help they need with everyday activities, and that can detract from their sense of self-worth. Still, it’s possible to provide support for aging loved ones without taking away their dignity.
Include Them in Important Decisions
One effective way to give an aging loved one the support they need without taking away their dignity is to include them in important decisions, specifically those that directly affect their lives. Let them be involved in choices about their care and living arrangements rather than simply choosing for them and telling them they have to go along. Respect their feelings, thoughts, and wishes. Though you may ultimately need to find a compromise, they’ll be happier knowing that they had a hand in the decision-making process.
Don’t Take Over
Along those same lines, it’s important to provide necessary assistance as opposed to completely taking over. For example, instead of jumping in and preparing meals for your loved one, make it a joint effort. Invest in an automatic medication dispenser to ensure they take their prescriptions without taking away their control. Use health monitoring devices and video feeds so you can watch over them without being overly present and making them feel as though they’re losing their independence.
Be Patient
Having patience with your aging loved one is also essential. Being forced to rely on someone for help can be difficult. That’s especially true for people who once took pride in being independent. Having those you turn to for assistance get frustrated and angry with you at every turn or even snap and talk down to you is anything but helpful. It often makes people nervous and can leave them feeling helpless and worthless. Few things are more hurtful, disheartening, and humiliating.
Being a caretaker can certainly be overwhelming at times. Still, it’s important to step back, take a deep breath, and exercise empathy and understanding. Several online resources are available for caregivers to help with managing frustration, fatigue, uncertainty, and other feelings that come with watching a loved one decline. Remember that you’re not alone in this too. Other family members, home health aides, and assisted living facilities are only a few of the options that are at your disposal.
Avoid Isolation and Idleness
Studies show that our dignity largely depends on our connections with other people and our sense of purpose. The more secluded and idle we are, the more our dignity can suffer. Along the way, it detracts from our confidence and motivation. When seniors fall into this type of downward spiral, it can exacerbate the natural decline in physical, cognitive, and mental health that occurs with age.
As such, keeping your loved one physically and mentally active and fostering their social connections is crucial. Plenty of resources are available in this arena as well. From phone calls and video chats to hobby groups, online exercise classes, and brain training games, there are plenty of ways to help your loved one stay active and social.
Helping Your Loved One Age Gracefully
When it becomes clear that an aging loved one needs more help than they once did, you want to do everything you can to keep them safe and make their life easier. Many people are quick to jump in and take over. In doing so, they inadvertently take away their loved one’s independence and dignity. It’s important to find a balance. Numerous resources are now available to reach that goal and help your loved one age gracefully without sacrificing their health and safety.