Caring for elders may seem like a daunting task, but there are many important things that you can do to make the task more manageable. For starters, you should always remember to be patient with yourself and be willing to try new things. Flexibility and empathy are important.
Be patient with your self
While caring for someone else is not easy, be patient with your own needs. Acceptance is key. While it's not something that anyone wants to see, the fact is that aging parents are a normal part of life. Your behavior as well as that of your parents will change with age. These changes can be dealt with by being patient with your parent and yourself.
Be flexible
Being flexible is an essential part of caring for an elderly person. If a person isn’t flexible, they are more likely to get hurt. They can be more flexible if they keep an eye on their time and are willing to work around what they need. It is important to be passionate about what you do and always seek ways to improve.
Empathic
You are taking care not only of the elder's needs, but also of their feelings. Empathic skills are one of the most important. This ability is not something you automatically acquire, but can be learned and practiced.
Remember to be patient with your loved one who has dementia
When taking care of an elder with dementia, it is important to remember to be patient. People with memory difficulties often need prompts to understand what your saying. Be sensitive to their needs, and encourage them by speaking softly and showing a friendly smile.
Keep active
Active living is an important part of healthy aging. As we age, the body becomes less mobile and more vulnerable to injury. Older adults may be less inclined to exercise or fall, and could end up sustaining injuries. This fear might prevent seniors from joining their local gyms and exercise groups. Encourage them to exercise at their own pace to help them stay active.