They say that being old is like having a second childhood. It certainly is for those seniors that are no longer independent and regular care. This care usually comes from unpaid family members. It can be a struggle to figure out how to care for a parent or other elderly relative. Here are some tips from McArdle Surgical in Pittsburgh PA.
You Don’t Have to do It Alone
There are many resources available online and through your state representative’s office for elder caregivers. Your loved one’s primary care doctor may also know of services or temporary at-home nurse care help that you can take advantage of. Join AARP in order to access their services and discounts.
Reduce Mirrors
Eliminate a number of mirrors your loved one interacts with every day if your loved one starts suffering from dementia. Mirrors tend to confuse and frighten dementia patients if they cannot recognize who the person is in the mirror. Remove any mirrors that are not firmly fixed as these could shatter if your loved one falls against them.
Invest in Balance and Lift Aids for Seniors
An extra banister helps balance seniors that can still use stairs. Seniors that cannot use stairs can use stair lifts to help keep them mobile and preserve independence. Seniors that cannot use beds anymore can find a deep, refreshing sleep in sleep chairs that also provide mechanical lifts for seniors with balance issues. To see a full catalog of aids, Click Here.
Switch to Digital Clocks
Conventional clock faces can get difficult for seniors to read. However, digital faces tend to be easier to read. Some digital clocks are made large display fronts for those with bad vision.
Make Sure Floors are Clutter-Free and Non-Slippery
One of the best things you can do for your loved one is making sure there are clutter-free paths to doorways, the bathroom, inside the kitchen or other rooms your loved one moves most about in. Drag your feet across the floor to make sure nothing is there that could snag your loved one’s feet. For example, rugs and bedspreads with large fringes have to go since they can easily snag a toe or get underfoot. Make sure all leaks are fixed, so they do not cause puddles on slick floors in bathrooms or kitchens. For more ideas for firm footing, check out McArdle Surgical in Pittsburgh PA.
