Making sure seniors are safe, healthy, and happy in their homes is vital as it contributes to graceful aging. However, caring for seniors, especially during the holidays or when busy, can strain someone health-wise, mentally, and physically, making it hard to manage one's life. In such cases, use the following ways to ensure checking in on elderly parents does not feel like a chore:
Develop a Routine
Holidays are a busy time for some people as they are filled with personal, family, and religious responsibilities. Fulfilling the duties is a great task for adult children, especially if they care for their elderly parents. If a child or caregiver has difficulty checking in on their elderly parent, they should create a consistent routine. Doing so helps them feel more in control by knowing what to expect and do at a given time.
Practicing Self-Care
Caring for senior parents can be difficult if adult children neglect themselves. Children and caregivers should make time for themselves to enjoy the things they like doing. This is important as it gives them time to relax and prevents burnout. When caring for a loved one, it is also common to have mixed feelings like guilt, anger, and worry. Adult children should learn to manage their emotions by expressing their feelings through therapy or talking to someone, as it helps reduce anxiety. Doing so also provides a healthy coping mechanism when caring for elderly parents.
Have Fun
Checking in on elderly parents does not always have to feel like a chore. Adult children and caregivers can shape their days by spending time with their parents doing things they both like. Sharing these enjoyable and happy moments brings them closer to their seniors and strengthens their relationships with each other.
Set Goals
When checking in on elderly parents starts to feel like a chore, adult children and caregivers should list the activities they have to do and prioritize what needs to be done first. They can also set realistic goals and celebrate all accomplishments, no matter how small.
Ask for Help
Checking in on elderly parents is sometimes stressful. It might feel like a chore, especially when one is busy or has another regular job. To avoid feeling this way, seek help from a friend or family member who might offer a helping hand. When several people join in and help with small tasks such as providing transportation or fixing dinner, caring for an elderly loved one becomes easy and flexible.
Hiring Caregivers
Adult children might also consider hiring caregivers for their elderly parents to help them with daily activities. Family caregiving has its rewards as it strengthens the relationship between the child and the senior citizens receiving the care and makes them feel more needed.
Senior Helpers Dayton Can Help
At Senior Helpers Dayton, we are the premier senior care providers regardless of where your elderly loved one resides in Centerville, Beavercreek, Oakwood, Kettering, and Huber Heights. We have a variety of in-home care and personalized services that support seniors to age in place. Contact us today for more information on our senior care services.