Balancing Senior Support with Independence

As our loved ones age, it's a normal reaction to jump in and offer a hand. It's hard not to, when their safety and well-being are our top concern. It's important to remember though, that there is a delicate balance to be met. Offering too much assistance can inadvertently hinder their independence and hurt their self-esteem.

Strategies to Achieve Balance for Your Loved One

Here are a few tips to find the balance between being supportive and fostering their independence:

1. Make a Plan Together: Before the need to assist becomes a reality, talk openly about potential changes down the road. Discuss their preferences when considering physical or cognitive support. Taking the time to plan proactively will give your loved one a sense of control and help make the transition easier when the time comes.
2. Watch Closely Before Assisting: If you notice your loved one struggling it's hard not to assume it is a recurring problem. When this happens, take a step back and observe. Consider their typical behavior and don't jump to conclusions. Discuss your concerns with others before jumping in to assist or taking on the role of caretaker.
3. Empower Through Ability: Encourage your loved one to remain independent as long as they are able. This will help preserve their self-care skills while also boosting their self-esteem. Help them by breaking complex tasks into small, manageable steps and being there as a guide to steer them towards tasks you know they can do without problem.  
4. Approach Assistance as a Tool: When talking about care assistance, consider approaching it from a different angle. Instead of highlighting things they are no longer able to do for themselves, frame the idea of care as a way to give them more time to focus on things that bring them joy. For example, consider the use of a cane;  a cane (or walker) gives seniors the ability to walk further distances than they would without help. It does not take away their ability to walk altogether. Receiving care from a caregiver allows them to put their energy into more enjoyable tasks like spending time with family or going out to coffee with a friend. Present it like having a personal assistant. Who wouldn't love to have someone come in and take care of some light housework, prepare meals, and be there to assist with laundry! 
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By considering these tips when approaching care options with your loved one, you can create a situation that focuses on both safety and self-reliance. Encouraging this can lead to increased self-confidence, improved mental health, and a higher quality of life. Your senior will continue to feel a sense of purpose and accomplishment by knowing they can remain in control of their daily routine. 

At Visiting Angels West Metro, we understand the importance of striking this balance. Our amazing caregivers are trained to provide the appropriate level of support and they know how to encourage and empower aging loved ones to remain independent. We are here to provide the necessary care for your loved ones and will adjust care plans as needs progress. Contact us today to learn about how our personalized care plans help seniors stay in their homes and provide peace of mind for families. Fill out our contact form or give us a call at 952-935-0789.