In many ways, the role of families in supporting their elderly loved ones has remained relatively unchanged for generations. Although technology and other societal changes have made the lives of older adults much different than before, families still provide the majority of their support in many key areas like health care, finances and social connections. However, there are specific challenges that come with supporting loved ones in the 21st century, including a more limited number of people who are willing and able to take on these roles. The good news is that there are many ways families can support their elderly loved ones so that they’re able to live full lives well into their golden years. Doing so will give them the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of their labor—as well as the satisfaction of knowing they’ve made a difference—for many years to come.
Health Care Support
One of the most obvious ways that families can support their elderly loved ones is by helping them manage their health care needs. This includes things like helping them get to their doctor appointments, keeping track of medications and knowing about any care issues that could put them at risk. It can be helpful to create a plan for supporting the health care needs of your loved one, whether that’s through making sure they have transportation to appointments, keeping a list of medications and their dosages or knowing what types of health issues they have or need to be aware of. It’s also important to be mindful of any health conditions your loved one may have and alert the doctor to any potential risks they may face while under their care.
Finances
Another key area of support is helping your loved one manage their finances. This could include things like making sure they have the right insurance coverage, that they’re saving for retirement and managing any debt they may have. It can also include finding ways for them to feel connected to their financial resources, such as through sharing their financial information with family members or hiring a financial advisor. It can be helpful to create a financial plan for your loved one and make sure it’s in their best interests. This can help you determine what kinds of financial products and services they should be using and how you can best support them in reaching their financial goals.
Cultural Activities and Events
Another way families can support their elderly loved ones is by creating opportunities for them to connect with their own cultures. This may include inviting elders from their families’ home countries to visit or holding gatherings to celebrate specific cultural holidays. It may also include helping your loved one find others in their community who may be interested in engaging in cultural activities and events. This can help them feel connected to their culture and make new friends as well.
Health and Wellness Activities
Another way families can support their elderly loved ones is by helping them engage in health and wellness activities. This can include things like exercising with them, helping them to go to appointments or taking them out for activities. It may also include helping them to create a home environment that is conducive to their health and wellness. This can include making sure there is easy access to healthy food and drink, encouraging them to engage in healthy habits like regular exercise and going to the doctor when they’re supposed to.
Social Connections
Another key area of support is helping your loved one stay socially connected. This could include engaging in activities that bring them together with their neighbours or friends, helping them to stay connected to their community and family members, or even helping them to find ways to stay connected to their identity and culture. It may also include helping them to stay connected to their passions and interests, and exploring ways to do so beyond just the people they already know.
Conclusion
Supporting your loved one is an important part of growing older. By creating opportunities for them to stay connected to their cultures and communities and to engage in health and wellness activities, you can help them to live full and happy lives well into their golden years.