Imagine
waking up one morning, swinging your legs out of bed only to realise,
"swinging" is no longer an option for you, it's more like attempting
an eight-point turn to get out of bed. The relaxing baths you once took now
feels like a chore, keeping your balance getting in and out of the tub,
managing to get up from your seated position in the tub, everything requires
more effort than it used to.
For many of
us, acknowledging our shortcomings and weaknesses is not easy. Accepting
that we have aged and our abilities have lessened is a hard pill to swallow. We
are all aware that we are ageing with every birthday we celebrate, but as we
enter our senior years, the fact that we have aged starts to become a reality
we have to face.
For many,
this is hard to come to terms with. Refusing to admit that we need help
is understandable and even normal. From infancy, we are raised to become
self-sufficient; it is within our nature. When this is no longer within our
ability, we often struggle to accept it.
As we are
all different and we age differently, it is helpful to know what are some of
the common signs to look out for to determine if assistance is necessary,
before approaching the subject of with a loved one.
Some of the
most obvious signs that indicate a need for assistance include our auditory and
visuals senses: eyes and ears. A lack of hearing or impairment in
eyesight can be very difficult to manage alone and could potentially be
dangerous.
Personal
grooming can be another indicating factor to look out for. Seemingly simple
tasks like taking a shower or bath, using the restroom, brushing your teeth or
getting dressed become increasingly hard for the elderly and needing help with
these tasks is very common.
Forgetfulness
or any form of dementia is another indicator that help is needed. Leaving
our loved ones alone can be stressful if memory loss is involved. Having
assistance in this situation is of immense importance.
Other more
obvious indicators include chronic illness, disability, wound treatment,
recovery from a medical procedure and frail care.
When
considering assisted living, be sure to include your loved one in the
conversation and decision if the situation allows it. Making them feel part of
the process often help with the adjustment.
Remember
that there are various options available when it comes to getting assistance
for your loved one. Assisted care facilities is a well-known option, but
it might be worth looking at options like a part-time care worker or even a
live-in care worker.
At Retire
At home, we have a range of options available to suit each clients individual
needs. We have a registered nurse that does a thorough assessment to
determine the need of the patient and propose a care package. Feel free to
contact us for a free evaluation and to find out more about the options
available to you and your loved one.