When someone you care about is aging in place, you want to be sure that their needs are met. This can become challenging given the numerous tasks that seniors may not be able to do on their own, which of course varies across a broad spectrum. A recent study found that about one fifth of senior citizens say they need some form of assistance with daily tasks. And there are other tasks still that they may be able to do without help, but could possibly be unsafe to do so—for instance, things which put them at risk for dangerous falls.
The bottom line is, whether you are helping carry out tasks directly, or hiring outside assistance, it is essential to identify the everyday tasks for which help is required.
Most Common Tasks That Require Help
This is probably the area in which elder loved ones most commonly outsource help. There are many kinds of cleaning which are either difficult or dangerous for someone advanced in age, especially if they are living with any kind of physical disability. Things like running the vacuum, rotating bedding, carrying baskets full of laundry, can be physically demanding, and other tasks such as mopping can pose dangerous fall risks.
Most Common Tasks That Require Help
Cleaning
This is probably the area in which elder loved ones most commonly outsource help. There are many kinds of cleaning which are either difficult or dangerous for someone advanced in age, especially if they are living with any kind of physical disability. Things like running the vacuum, rotating bedding, carrying baskets full of laundry, can be physically demanding, and other tasks such as mopping can pose dangerous fall risks.
Pet Care
Making sure that a pet goes to the vet, groomer, etc. is something that seniors might consider outsourcing, as it can be a stressful and demanding outing. Additionally, they may need help with routine care such as cleaning litter boxes or giving pets their medicine.
Taking Out Garbage
It’s only once a week, but hauling out the garbage and recycling bins can be a lot of hassle, especially with longer or steeper driveways.
Handling Chemicals
Any kind of harmful household chemicals should be handled with extreme care, and it’s always a good idea to get some outside help to avoid serious injury.
Sorting Medicine
Keeping track of daily medicine dosage can be tricky for many seniors. Taking just a little time each week to help them sort daily medication into a Sunday-to-Saturday sorting container will go a long way.
Meal Preparation
Grocery runs and meal planning is a huge help for elderly loved ones. This can vary from family to family. It may just be a monthly trip to stock the pantry, or a hot meal brought over more frequently.
Lawn & Garden Care
Tending to basic garden and lawn needs can be a big relief to an elderly loved one who may struggle with arthritis, difficulty bending down, etc. Make sure that help is available to reduce the risk of serious injuries in the yard or in the garden.
These are just a few of the more common areas loved ones may need your help, or the assistance of a paid professional.
Know When Help is Needed
Asking for help can be very difficult for seniors. Do not just assume that if they don’t ask for assistance that everything is under control. Be delicate and compassionate and check in now and then to see how they are doing in these and other areas of life. Show that you care and desire to help take things off their plate as much as possible, and work together to make a plan for how those tasks will get completed.
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