According to Age UK, around 3.8 million elderly people live alone just in the UK, with 58% of that number over the age of 75.
The average life expectancy is increasing, and we all want help our elderly loved ones live life to its fullest.
Here are our top suggestions for providing them with all the support that they need to keep them living as independently as possible for as long as possible?
All Play and No Work
Keep your loved one’s day filled with activities to maximise their engagement and be sure to ask for their opinion on options for places that they might like to explore during the course of their day.
Whether it’s crosswords, endless episodes of The Weakest Link, or even baking, make sure to keep their interests at the front and centre of every decision you make with them about their care; it will promote a healthy relationship between you both.
Mobility is Everything
Mobility aids are expensive and can be time-consuming to maintain. Their costly nature can mean that when the time comes for them to be removed and replaced, you can be left wondering what the next step is.
For bulkier items such as stairlifts, it’s worth looking into companies such as We Buy Any Stairlift. These professionals can come to your home and remove a stairlift that is no longer needed with minimal impact on your pocket, and maximum peace of mind for you and your family.
A Little Bit of Tender Loving Care
Having a carer come in, even if only once a day can make a huge difference.
Sometimes just having a meal cooked or help with ironing and other larger household chores can provide that lift of assistance while also maintaining a respectful level of autonomy.
Apps such as Jointly can help you to keep track of which tasks need doing, as well as providing you with help to organise any required care for your relatives.
Move on Up
Studies have shown that encouraging movement in the elderly (where possible and appropriate) helps to maintain physical and mental health.
Where possible, take a day trip to their favourite place, or involve them in going out to buy their groceries during the week.
Keeping exercise levels realistic, but consistent will promote well-being and help to protect against the breakdown of their muscles.
Safeguarding
If your relative is alone for most of the day, you might want to invest in an alert system in case of an accident or sudden illness.
Most small systems such as the Lifeline alarm comes in the form of a compact and waterproof pendant that can be worn and triggered if needed. This will allow you to keep your mind at ease while you’re away from your relative, letting you know if you’re needed in the event of an emergency.
What have you done to assist in your elderly relatives independence? Let us know in the comments below!
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