As you begin a new year, thoughts might turn towards the elderly loved ones in your life. How can you make them more comfortable and happy? In the rush of your own daily life, it’s easy to let things fall through the cracks. Looking ahead, you might be wondering how to get back on track to keeping your older family members healthy and happy in the coming year.
Health Goals
There have been amazing strides in senior health research, and we know more than ever about extending quality of life, memory and overall fitness. When addressing the needs of your loved one, it’s important to keep in mind their mental, emotional and physical health, and how these factors interact with each other. Research shows that poor emotional health has real physical consequences, particularly on the elderly. Here are 3 tips to help boost the health of your senior loved ones:
1. Tried and True Habits.
Some healthy habits should not change with age. Proper sleep, water intake and healthy diets are crucial no matter what season of life one is in. Encourage your elderly loved one to get plenty of sleep, eat and snack an adequate amount of healthy foods and ensure that they’re drinking plenty of water. It seems so obvious, but often the obvious things are frequently overlooked!
2. Spend More Time Outdoors.
This is especially true if your family member is in an assisted living facility or nursing home. It can be as simple as sitting outside with them during a visit, or taking them on a walk around the premises if they’re able. At most assisted living facilities, independence is encouraged and trips off the grounds are common. If physically possible, encourage your loved one to make the most of these opportunities.
3. Visit Regularly.
Make it a goal to visit your senior loved one regularly. Visits allow you to ensure that their needs are being met, but they also keep your loved one emotionally engaged and remind them of moments and memories they may have forgotten. You will soon find that you gain as much as you give.
Make it a Healthy Year
There are many ways for you to ensure that your older loved one is healthy and happy, but the most important way is to simply be there for them. They need you more than you can imagine. Help them make it a healthy and happy year!
To learn more about our unique approach to life and health in our assisted living cottages, Contact Us.
