Caring for an elderly person does not come without challenges. Some seniors are vital and active right up until they succumb to natural causes of death, while others experience health problems for years. Seniors also have a host of daily living issues to contend with. Finances, navigating a complicated medical-insurance system and driving are some obstacles that become more difficult as one gets on in years.
What to expect when caring for an aging senior
The first step in caring for a senior is finding a doctor that specializes in the needs of older adults. One geriatrician at University Hospitals in Cleveland, Ohio says that elders take more time to evaluate than young patients. Most general practitioners do not have that kind of time. A specialist will look at how the person takes care of himself: Is he able to wash properly? Can he cook adequately and buy groceries? Can he pay his bills and drive?
Why seniors need to be cared for
It's difficult to imagine aging parents as old and helpless. Knowing when to talk to a senior about the future can be stressful. Presently, she appears to be in good health, and you'll want it to stay that way forever. You want her to be able to live on her own and drive wherever she needs to go. You want her to be financially independent and able to keep up her lifestyle until the end. And the last thing you ever want to think about is "the end." For any person, especially a senior, good health is not a given. Regardless of how healthy your loved one has been, she is just one fall or one illness away from crisis.
Well-being is more than just physical health
It's a fact that our physical health will deteriorate as we age. Scientists are finding unquestioned links between physical and mental well-being. The MacArthur Study of Successful Aging evaluated physical and cognitive functioning among healthy volunteers between the ages of 70 and 79. The subjects were followed for an average of seven years. Researchers found that those who engaged in regular physical activity were half as likely to show a decline in physical health as those who were inactive. There is no lack of activities for this age group. From volunteering to adult day-care centers, seniors can always stay active and connected to friends and family.
When it's time to get more help
There's nothing wrong with asking for help. Anyone who has ever cared for an aging person will agree. There are more options for geriatrics than ever before. Government websites, nonprofit organizations and senior advocacy groups have cropped up in recent years offering suggestions and solutions for every level of care required. Companionship programs offer daily telephone calls from a "buddy," daily visitors and 24-7 paid companions. For a less mobile person, respite care offers a paraprofessional to take over the caregiving role for as long as needed. Brief breaks from providing treatment are healthy for the patient and caregiver. Independent care facilities offer a thriving residential setting with on- and off-site recreation. More attention, like housekeeping assistance and transportation, is offered to the less-ambulatory person.
Resources for helping the caretaker
It's not easy caring for any dependent, regardless of age. You become responsible for life-changing decisions. Choosing what is best for an aging loved one does not have to rest on the shoulders of just one person. Doctors, social workers and websites are available for consultation. Before deciding whether any senior should go to day-care or hospice care, professionals can evaluate their mental and physical health. Websites provide data and experienced social workers can direct you to accredited facilities and medical providers.
Tags: physical health, good health, social workers
