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As your parents, grandparents, and other relatives get older, you’ll start to appreciate your quality time more and more. However, whether they’re having fun with you or spending time alone, it’s crucial to prioritize their health around the clock. To preserve your loved one’s well-being, take advantage of these elderly care do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Focus on hydration.

As your senior gets older, their sensitivity to thirst will decrease, as will the percentage of water in their body. Therefore, it’s much easier for dehydration to take hold.

To prevent heat-related illness, headaches, and fatigue, make sure your loved one is drinking at least eight glasses of water throughout the day. If they enjoy coffee, black tea, or alcohol, make sure to increase their water intake before and after.

Get them moving.

elderly careEven if your parent is dealing with joint pain or muscle tightness, it’s important to motivate them to stay active. Instead of a board game or movie, suggest a walk or bike ride.

If they’re enjoying some friendly competition, consider a game of mini-golf or badminton. Moving throughout the day will promote circulation and increase their range of motion, as well as lift their spirits.

Don’t:

Forget about regular checkups.

Frequent checkups are important for seniors. Keep track of your grandparent’s cardiology or orthopedic appointments in a planner, and send them reminders of the visits a few days in advance. Drive them to the appointments for support, and ask the doctor questions to ensure your loved one is receiving the best care possible.

Underestimate the importance of mental stimulation.

While you might be primarily focused on your loved one’s physical elderly care, their mental health is just as much within your control. To keep their brain active, shut off the TV and listen to a mystery audiobook together, taking breaks to discuss your predictions and observations.

When you can’t be around, leave them with a crossword book, which will stimulate their spatial and linguistic skills. Keeping their brain active may help reduce the progression of mental decline.

 

If your senior loved one requires care, the team at Deer Valley Home Health Services provides in-home elderly care services to individuals around Berkeley, MO. Their caregivers can ensure your loved one maintains a healthy diet, drinks enough water, and gets the physical and mental activity they need to thrive. To learn more about their services, visit the website or call (314) 355-3679.

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