Providing the best possible quality of life for seniors means striking a balance between ensuring their needs are met and encouraging them to exercise independence wherever possible. Many older adults enjoy maintaining their freedom and maintaining their own schedule at home, where they’re most comfortable. To support their desire to retain autonomy, here are a few senior care tactics to follow when overseeing the needs of your loved one.

5 Ways to Promote Independence in Elderly Loved Ones

1. Promote Collaboration in Daily Tasks

If your loved one can perform certain household tasks safely, encourage them to help when you’re over for visits. This could include folding laundry, writing out a grocery list, or helping with meal preparation. While some activities such as heavy lifting or cleaning may require further assistance, ensuring they have a role in simpler tasks promotes a sense of self-sufficiency.

2. Encourage Physical Activity

By following a low-intensity physical activity routine, your loved one will remain fit, and tasks will be easier to accomplish. They’ll also improve their strength and balance, which reduces the risk of falling. Simple exercises such as walking, dancing, or gardening can reduce blood pressure and strengthen the bones. For best results, have someone join your loved one for accountability.

3. Focus on Their Capabilities

Your senior may feel frustrated when considering what they can no longer do. To foster their independence, focus on what they can still accomplish. For instance, if your loved one can no longer drive, you can bring fun activities to them, or schedule outings on a day when you can provide transportation. 

4. Equip Their Home Environment

Home hazards like slippery floors and stairs become increasingly dangerous with age. To keep your loved one safe in their home, consider having assistive devices like shower rails installed. You can also purchase a bathing chair and make sure rugs are secure throughout the home to prevent falls. This will allow them to navigate their home independently yet safely. 

5. Hire a Senior Care Professional

Hiring a senior care professional will ensure that your family member still receives assistance with any difficult tasks like housekeeping while maintaining their own routine. Caregivers can also offer errand or medical transportation, allowing your senior to get where they need to go when you’re unable to drive them.

If you have an elderly loved one who could benefit from the help of a personal care assistant, contact A Better Life Health Care Network. Serving St. Louis County, MO, this team of senior care providers offers a broad range of services to assist seniors, including housekeeping, laundry, transportation, grooming, and meal preparation. Discover more of their comprehensive care services on their website or call (314) 266-0289 to discuss your family’s needs today.