Taking care of an aging parent or elderly loved one is an experience that is both rewarding and challenging. To better manage its ups and downs, there are some general guidelines that can make the elderly care and support you provide more effective for all parties involved. Here, a few of these do’s and don'ts are discussed in more detail.

Do:

Make time for yourself.

Take care of yourself. Arrange for another family member or elderly care professional to provide regular respite care. When you're away, do activities that recharge you. Go for a walk or run, get a massage, meditate, or take a nap.

Plan fun activities.

With age comes a slow down in movement and mobility. This can feel limiting, and you may be hesitant to schedule activities away from the home or ones that require a lot of physical exertion. Still, it's crucial for both you and your loved one to have fun and take part in engaging activities, and they don’t need to be strenuous, either. Start a book club, play board games, take up bird-watching, do art projects, or even just sit outside on nice days. 

Don't:

Forget to listen.

Older adults sometimes feel like they're not being heard or that their lives and care are being micromanaged and they no longer have a say. Make them feel like the vital, important person they still are. Listen to their thoughts and feelings. This could mean letting them vent about health frustrations and fears or just engaging them in reminiscences and happy memories. Be a supportive ear to bend.

Do everything yourself.

The fastest way to caregiver burnout is to try to take on everything alone. Everyone needs support, even the most dedicated and determined caregiver. Know your limitations. Identify the areas of elderly care that are particular challenges for you, and bring in a professional. A home health care service will provide the exact support and assistance your loved one requires, and you will have peace of mind knowing that additional protections and professional care are in place.

Following these elderly care tips will help you look after your loved one and yourself. For those issues requiring professional assistance, trust Deer Valley Home Health Services. They have been serving the Berkeley, St. Charles, and St. Louis, MO, areas for more than 10 years, providing senior services and disabled adult and youth care. Call (314) 355-3679 to schedule a caregiver, or visit them online to learn more about their services.