Top 10 Tips For Elderly Home Care

Major issues the elderly face when being nursed at home include social isolation / depression, decreased self esteem related to the loss of role playing within society and security. Mental health is as important as physical health in groups that are particularly vulnerable and often feel disempowered.
The aim is to re-empower them & make them feel good about themselves again.
 
To combat depression / loss of self esteem:

1) Create a hobbie space- the creation of an aesthetically pleasing space full of one's favourite books, music, art / hobbies is a great reminder of sense of self / individuality.

2) Get enough fresh air and sunlight- spend a little time in the garden or on the patio each day (Vitamin D from sunlight boosts the immune system, elevates mood and reduces the risk of bone fractures in the elderly).
 

3) Get connected to the community- get onto the internet, connect with the online community, get younger relatives to teach you how to use the net to its fullest and stay connected with loved ones without leaving the house. Find out what community events you might like to participate in or attend at least once a month & arrange the transport to get there - create something to look forward to on a regular basis.
 

4) Keep the brain active- doing the crossword, soduku, playing chess with a neighbour or friend (online or in person), subscribe to good news magazines like Ode.
 

5) Consider getting a pet- hypoallergenic small breeds of dogs and cats - or feed the local wildlife & make a log or photo record of all the visitors to the window sill or garden. Local bird watching groups rely on sightings and reporting by locals.
 

6) Consider getting a massage once a fortnight- Therapeutic touch is a wonderful way to relax, rebalance and connect with spirit & deeper self again.
 

7) Create events- don't wait for birthdays or Christmas, celebrate something like the World Cup, an election loss, the first day of a season, by creating a fun gathering with the kids, grandkids, neighbours, friends etc, is a good way keep in touch with special people.
 

8) Laugh! - Rent a comedy once a week. Save one night a week for a nice bottle of wine with a friend & line it up with a good movie on TV.
 

9) Keep it quirky.- Burn a little incense (in a safe spot), spend an extra euro on a really nice body soap, create a ritual around a really good cup of tea with a friend, put your sunglasses on, grab a good book and catch the rays in the brief moments of Irish sunlight. The more ridiculous, the more memorable.
 

10) Create a photo wall- with photos of all your life achievements, important moments, meaningful and memorable events and interactions. Remind yourself of your accomplishments, contributions, talents & insightful moments in life that you've been lucky enough to experience. Add a few little positive affirmations, a leaf, a feather, a flower. Remind yourself daily of how special you are.