How To Look After An Elderly Relative At Home
Unfortunately growing old is not something that anyone can control, so when a member of your family begins to get that little bit older but has not deteriorated to the point where they need to go into a retirement home, you want to do all you can to make them feel comfortable in their own setting. So here are some suggestions as to what you can do when you find yourself in this scenario.
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Make Regular Visits
If they still live independently but are alone, then it is useful to check in on them on a regular basis. They might not be going out as often as they used to so they could become lonely if they are not having regular conversations on a one-to-one basis. Making surprise visits will also be nice as it will demonstrate that you care.
Ensure They Have Enough Medication Supplies
If your relative needs to take medication on a daily basis, you want to ensure that they always have enough in stock. Keeping on top of their repeat prescription online is a good way to keep track, that way, they will never run out of medicine, particularly if it needs to be taken daily. Setting reminders on your phone when a prescription is due to be renewed is an excellent way to remind yourself before they run out of supplies.
Keep Up To Date With Their Medical Needs 
If they suffer from a respiratory illness and require oxygen services, it is a good idea to look into this in advance. This way you can be sure that they have the medical equipment they need at home, to be able to comfortably get on with their day.
Organize a Day Out With Their Friends
Whilst they may enjoy your company as a family member, it is still important to maintain social contact with people their own age. It will enable them to catch up with their own friends that they perhaps do not see in person as often as they would like. Organizing a meet-up on their behalf will give them something to look forward to whilst also maintaining personal friendships, which is certainly important to help prevent loneliness and isolation.
Keep Their Mind Sharp With Puzzles
To help prevent onset Dementia or Alzheimer’s it can be useful to encourage them to do daily crossword puzzles and jigsaws. It allows them to focus on the task ahead and helps to keep their mind sharp as much as possible.
You could buy some puzzle books and encourage them to do a jigsaw with you so that they are still using their problem-solving skills. Overall it is important that your relatives are healthy and happy, so anything you can do that will benefit them in a positive way will certainly help.
