Family isn’t just a word; it’s an entire world for many of us. The support and encouragement from a beloved family member can bring happiness even in tough times. For seniors who age alone, a moment and a word from family can make a significant difference. Family Support for the elderly plays a key role in senior’s well-being. Though this seems simpler, these seemingly small oversights can grow into bigger issues and lead to health concerns in the elderly. Despite being considered the pillars of our family, our elders are often unintentionally neglected due to our busy schedules.
To overcome such complexities, families need to take measures to ensure the happiness and security of their elders. The happier they are, the easier it is to ensure their health. While some families make an effort to spend time with their loved ones, many are unaware of how neglecting family support can impact the overall health of seniors.
To help families understand the importance of family support for the elderly and provide ideas to achieve this, we have crafted some simple tips. Follow them to uplift your family support system with seniors.
6 Key Benefits of Family Support for the Elderly
Increase Life Expectancy: Seniors who actively engage in social interactions with family members tend to have a higher likelihood of living longer compared to those who remain isolated. The presence of family plays a crucial role in extending their lifespan and enhancing the overall quality of their remaining years.
Improve immune system: This is a crucial advantage of family support for the elderly. As immune systems typically weaken with age, the presence and support of families play a vital role in maintaining an active social life, ultimately contributing to the strengthening of their immunity.
Boost mental health. Elderly people maintaining close ties with their families often experience better mental health compared to those who do not. Regular interactions with family members and the reassurance of being cared for can significantly reduce feelings of depression and contribute to a more positive mental well-being.
Assure life satisfaction: Quality time spent with family can result in increased satisfaction and happiness. The love, support, and encouragement from family members have the power to elevate self-esteem and confidence, fostering a more optimistic perspective on life.
Offer Emotional Support: This is one of the best benefits of the family support system. The care and non-judgmental space created by families assist seniors in overcoming stress and negativity, fostering feelings of gratitude and instilling in them a positive outlook on their surroundings.
9 Ways Families Can Promote Better Health for Seniors
1. Plan Social Meals
Consider sitting beside your aging loved one during meals. Eating alone can lead to feelings of isolation. Dedicate some time each day to share at least two meals. If possible, extend the warmth by inviting family and friends to make these moments even more wonderful and memorable.
2. Do Video Calling
Though we may not always be available, we can add value and make our presence felt through communication.
A simple check-in on their well-being or a gratitude-filled call can significantly contribute to their overall health and well-being.
3. Offer help even if it is small
Seniors are incredibly responsible individuals, often planning to handle tasks independently to ease the burden on their children. However, we must acknowledge this by demonstrating a willingness to help. This conveys that they don’t have to seek support explicitly but assures them that we are always available to understand their needs and provide assistance.
4. Listen to them
This simple yet essential approach is a powerful way to assure our elders that we are here for them. Despite changing generations and advancing technologies, their experiences remain a valuable knowledge source. Listening to them is a way to show that we deeply value their wisdom. Their knowledge is a treasure that should not be overlooked or ignored.
5. Teach them when required
Seniors often face challenges with the usage of technology gadgets. Offering assistance and guidance without any criticism or judgement will encourage and reassure them.
This will let them know that you are always there to offer assistance and support.
6. Surprise when needed
Gifting doesn’t always have to be extravagant or costly; even small acts of kindness, presenting a bouquet is a delightful way to bring happiness to our seniors. Surprises need not always be material things; sometimes, simple gestures like heartfelt conversations, a hand note, preparing a favorite food, etc., can add significant value to their overall well-being.
7. Take them out
While staying at home is convenient, planning occasional picnics and outings can bring a refreshing change for elders. This not only impacts their mental health positively but also boosts their physical well-being. Engaging in such activities reminds them that aging is not an end; they can still create memorable moments with the most valuable people in their lives.
8. Accompany during hospital visits
When seniors have hospital visits, dedicate some time to be by their side. This shows them that their health is a top priority for you and also encourages them to prioritize their own well-being.
So, ensure to be available during such crucial moments.
9. Plan some fun activities
Engaging in fun activities is a fantastic way to strengthen the bonds within your family. Don’t hesitate to plan enjoyable activities like crafting, movie marathon, board game night, etc., to make family bonding extraordinary. These activities not only bring joy but also contribute to creating lasting and memorable memories.
Elders are our precious treasures, and their presence enriches our lives in many ways. Their wisdom and experience serve as a living encyclopedia for us. While some may offer material things as tokens of appreciation, the most valuable gift we can give them is our time. This not only matters to them but also holds significance for us, revealing its true worth only through shared moments.
Family Support for the elderly plays a pivotal role in both you and your loved one’s well-being. If you seek a caregiver to stand by your loved one when you are unavailable or need ideas to strengthen the bond with your seniors, consider choosing our caregivers.
Assured Home Nursing caregivers are well-trained and proficient in understanding the needs of both families and seniors. Whether you’re looking for companionship or disease-specific care plans, we offer a range of in-home care services tailored to every senior’s needs.
Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_support
https://nypost.com/2018/03/20/american-families-barely-spend-quality-time-together/
https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/75319
https://www.noisolation.com/research/why-family-is-the-secret-to-better-health-outcomes
For a free consultation, contact us at (248) 593-8134 and our experienced nurses and caregivers will be at your service.
