Caregiving for an elderly person can be a daunting task. Senior adults may present a wide variety of needs, from physical challenges to memory loss. Care needs often increase as we age, and there is a learning curve to supporting a loved one who is aging. What is the proper way to care for an elderly person?

You may not be able to individually meet each of your loved one’s needs, but you can certainly provide the most important kind of care: emotional support. Experts agree that providing emotional support to older individuals is an urgent public health priority. Isolation and loneliness put seniors at risk for serious health conditions.

Emotional support is significant for the mental health of your older loved ones, and it is also a medical necessity. Thankfully, there are many concrete ways to provide the necessary support to help the seniors you love thrive.

How to Provide Emotional Support for the Elderly

Diminished physical or mental capabilities often make it harder for seniors to meet their own emotional needs. These 7 tips from Blue Moon Senior Counseling offer practical ways for you to offer emotional support to the elderly folks in your life.

1. Listen

The best way to communicate is by using your ears. Instead of keeping up a running monologue, ask good questions and actively listen to their responses. Hearing someone out is a great way to honor their dignity.

2. Protect

Safety and security are the basic needs of every human, and seniors might need help in achieving these goals. When providing emotional support to an elderly person, you may need to monitor their environment for risks.

3. Respect

The factor that is most important in caring for the elderly is dignity. No disability or condition justifies the infantilization of our elders. Health outcomes, both mental and physical, are improved when seniors are treated with dignity. It is crucial that you always approach caregiving with an attitude of respect.

4. Motivate

Depression is unfortunately a common side effect of aging. Executive dysfunction can make it difficult for your elderly loved one to feel motivated or excited about activities. You can help by suggesting things to do, like inviting them to outings or events. Alternately, you could try working out with them, or encouraging them to continue their hobbies.

5. Socialize

Social connection is crucial to well-being—not just for seniors, either! Time with friends and family is a vital piece of mental health. You can support the elderly people you love just by being with them or encouraging them to spend time with others.

6. Assist

If your loved one is struggling with mobility or self-care, ask if you can help. Managing hygiene, grooming, and a routine is very important. These daily tasks are integral to mental health and confidence.

7. Observe

As a caregiver, you are in some ways a first responder for your loved one. You will know their patterns and behaviors better than most healthcare professionals! Keep an eye on their mood and routines. Take note of any incidents like fender benders or falls, and try to notice patterns.

Challenges in Caring for the Elderly

Being a caregiver is an incredible sacrifice. It can be both physically and emotionally demanding to provide support for someone else. These challenges are compounded when you are caring for someone struggling with chronic conditions, mental illnesses, or dementia. Caregiving is often a full-time job!

If you’re struggling with caregiving, you are not alone. Find more tips here from the Family Caregiver Alliance.

Caring for the Elderly With Dementia

Who does the responsibility of elderly emotional support fall to? A study in 2012 concluded that a partnership must be made between professionals and caregivers, such as family members and friends. This integration leads to more comprehensive and effective care. For elderly people with dementia, communication between sets of caregivers is even more crucial.

Memory care highlights the need for ethics in caring for the elderly. If you are unable to meet the emotional and physical needs of your loved one in their home don’t be ashamed. You may need help from a trustworthy organization.

We work at all times to respect our residents’ autonomy while providing the high-quality care we are known for. Learn more about our Memory Care services.