Tips for Making Everyday Tasks Easier for Seniors
Every season of life comes with opportunities and challenges. One particular challenge that comes with aging is finding difficulty in everyday activities that once seemed so simple. While this is typically due to physical restraints or changes, it can have a mental impact for those who experience it, creating feelings of inadequacy or being incapable.
Advice for Simplifying Daily Life
Thankfully, there are options to help maintain dignity and independence while facing these challenges. It is a normal part of life that many seniors go through, so solutions have been tried and tested already to find out what helps, and we are sharing some of them with you today. If you have a senior loved one who has been struggling with everyday tasks lately, try helping them implement these tips into their life, and see how it helps!
Create a Daily Routine
Routines are essential because they help us anticipate what comes next. Find an organizational structure that works, whether it’s a calendar or a to-do list. Make sure to prioritize daily obligations based on their importance and your loved one’s energy levels. It may take some time for things to become routine, but eventually it will fall into place and make managing mundane daily activities, like taking medications, much more possible.
Declutter the Home
A clutter-free environment makes it easier to move around safely and locate essential items. Grab a friend, family member, or your senior loved one’s caregiver, and ask them to assist in organizing the main spaces of the home. Keep frequently-used items easily within reach. Purchase or make labels to mark items and make them easier to find.
Utilize Assistive Devices
There are many assistive devices available to help those who struggle with physical limitations. Here are a few examples of household helpers to consider:
- Grab bars, shower chairs, and handheld shower heads to install in bathrooms.
- Medication dispensers to make sure medication is taken on the correct day/time and at the correct dose.
- Voice-activated assistants to adjust the thermostat, turn lights on and off, get the weather forecast, make video calls, set reminders, and more.
- A cane, walker, or walking stick to feel confident in your mobility and to avoid trips or falls.
- Lazy susans for the fridge and pantry for easier access to food.
- Reaching tools for grabbing items off the floor, rather than bending down, or to reach high (lightweight) items without climbing.
- Ergonomic cooking tools, such as utensils with thicker grips.
- An alert device to easily call for help in the case of medical emergencies.
Practice Healthy Habits
Keep your body nourished to give it strength and energy. Nutritious foods, like fruits and vegetables, lean protein sources, low-sodium snacks, and whole grains are going to help with this. Drinking water frequently to prevent dehydration is also essential.
How Visiting Angels Yukon Can Help
At Visiting Angels Yukon, we understand that needs change as individuals age. That’s why we offer personalized in-home care to help with essential household tasks. Our experienced caregivers can assist with grocery shopping, healthy meal prep, light chores, grooming and hygiene, transportation, medication reminders, and more. Additionally, caregivers can keep homes tidy and free from tripping hazards, and may be able to suggest safety modifications around your home to prevent falls and other accidents from occuring using The Visiting Angels Safe and Steady® Fall Prevention Resource Guide.
With support from Visiting Angels, your senior loved one can continue to live safely and independently at home for years to come.
To get started today, please reach out to Visiting Angels Yukon via our contact form or by calling us at 405-350-6700.