As experts in caring for the elderly and vulnerable, Hope At Home Care offers practical advice to support your loved ones during challenging times. Here are our top suggestions for looking after elderly relatives:
- Pick Up the Phone!
Regularly call your loved ones to check in on them. Talk about various topics to keep the conversation lively. Share stories about TV shows, films, garden activities, walks, or funny anecdotes about the children.
- Create a Handy Helpline List
Compile a list of support websites and phone lines available to them. This can be left by their phone for easy access if they need additional help and support.
- Encourage Physical Activity
Staying active at home is crucial. Share what you’ve been doing to stay fit and motivate them with simple exercises like chair routines or lifting tins of beans.
- Create a Rota
Organize a schedule with other family members to check on your relatives. A shared effort helps everyone stay connected and ensures regular support.
- Help Organize Shopping
Online shopping can be daunting for some. Offer to organize their online food orders, discussing their preferences and delivery times. If online shopping isn’t possible, inform them of available shopping support so they can stay safe at home.
- Be Mindful of Scams
Remind them never to give out their bank or money details over the phone, as there has been an increase in scams targeting the elderly.
- Green Fingers
Gardening can be great for mental and physical health. Encourage them to engage in gardening activities, whether it’s watering plant pots or nurturing windowsill plants.
- Family Calls
Encourage group calls with family members using apps and digital tools. If they don’t have a smartphone or tablet, you can dial them into a group chat.
- Pet Playtime
Pets can boost morale and offer a sense of purpose. If they have pets, encourage them to spend time playing and caring for them.
- Get the Brain Working
Suggest activities like crosswords, puzzles, and other brain games. If possible, leave a new puzzle book on their doorstep as a pleasant surprise during your daily walk.
By following these suggestions, you can help ensure your elderly relatives remain safe, healthy, and engaged. For more personalized advice and support, contact Hope At Home Care.
