Seniors Caring for Seniors

 

Most of us don’t really consider ourselves to be seniors until our kids become seniors.  Whoa, how can my daughter be 50 when I don’t feel any older than that myself, it is a rather rude awakening.  Think of it the other way around.  How do they feel when they look at us at 70 or 80, when they still feel “middle aged?”   Many “older” seniors are reluctant to ask for help, even when down deep, they know it is time.

 Sit down with your children, before the time comes, and let them know that you will not be averse to turning over the reigns if it becomes necessary.  There is nothing wrong with accepting help from a caregiver and the fact that you can admit this shows that you are still in control of your life.  Many people have caregivers throughout their entire lives in the form of parents, nanny’s, housekeepers and spouses so this isn’t a new thing.

 

At what point should you admit that a little help might be welcome? 

 

• Is a major health problem keeping you from going out and enjoying activities that you enjoy?
• Are you having financial problems and are bills going unpaid?
• Are household repairs and lawn maintenance getting to be too much?
• Are you living alone?
• Is it getting too hard to dress up?  Is shaving or going out to get your hair done just too much work?
• Is the refrigerator poorly stocked and shopping too much of an effort?
• Are you cooking of making do with instant oatmeal and instant soup mixes?
• Have you had a driving accident or are you too intimidated to drive?
• Are you feeling tired or depressed all of the time?

 

You may not notice these things yourself but others will and it is your job to be open to getting help whether from your medical team or a caregiver. These behaviors are not normal so the first step is an appointment for a complete physical.  If you want to stay healthy and you want to continue living in your own home it is important to rejoin the human race.  Work with your loved ones and they will be happy to work with you. There is a huge support system for aging in place because old age is not a disease; it is something that happens to everyone. 

Comments

[Debarati Bhattacharya]

Quite an eye-opener. Good to know!