For most of us, the thought of getting older includes images of wheelchairs and walkers. We often envision ourselves as having grey hair and wrinkled skin, but we don’t necessarily see the frowns that may become regular facial expressions in our later years. The point, of course, is that mobility issues are not the only concerns that face us as we age. For many seniors, battling depression is an even steeper obstacle to climb.
Keep in mind that it is isn’t particularly fun to lose strength and mobility. So, as much as we may think that our physical mobility aids are adequate, it’s important to remember that tender loving care goes a long way. Remember that people who suffer from mobility issues often feel less of themselves. Your emotional support is every bit as important as the support they may receive from their wheelchairs and walkers.
“One possible cause for self-esteem dips in aging adults is the loss of independence due to physical and cognitive decline,” notes Anne-Marie Botek on AgingCare.com, “This is played out in the conflicts created by conversations of whether an elderly loved one should still be driving, or if they can still safely live on their own.”
Independence is a key to happiness.
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we’ve found that providing mobility solutions does a lot more than help our clients to live life more comfortably and safely. It makes them happier. You’re never too old to be able to enjoy life. And for many members of our older generation, the freedom that comes with a restoration of independence is very gratifying. This is why it’s so important to be supportive.
“Regardless of age, individuals who have supportive, loving relationships with friends and family consistently report higher self-esteem and overall happiness,” says Botek, “Communities and groups aimed at supporting members through various life transitionsfrom becoming an empty-nester to dealing with a loved one’s deathare good resources for handling these events in a healthy way.”
Let them know they’re not alone.
Isolation can be a scary thing. When you let your elderly loved ones know that they’re not alone, you’ve practically taken care of half the problem. People automatically regain confidence when they realize that they’re not the only ones dealing with a particular issue. In addition to your own efforts to offer love and support to an elderly loved one, it’s advisable to get them involved in social groups with others in their age brackets.
“Seniors with a sense of purpose or hobbies that interest them are less likely to succumb to the negative effects of social isolation,” says Jeff Anderson on APlaceForMom.com, “Anything that involves a group, for example, playing bridge, could be said to be socially healthy. If a senior is bereft of ideas for what to do, there are always planned events at the local senior centre.”
Allow the team at Advantage Home Health Solutions to help you make the seniors in your life feel better about themselves. If you have any questions about the mobility devices and home accessibility options that we have to offer, please don’t hesitate to contact us to ask them. Give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact Us page!
