Depression among older adults is not uncommon. In fact, approximately 7 percent of elders live with chronic depression and even more will experience bouts of it. This, however, does not mean that it is a normal issue, or that it is just something that your aging parent will have to deal with as they get older.
Elder Care Dix Hills NY –Tips for Helping Your Elder Cope with Depression
As their family caregiver it is important that you recognize the negative impact that depression can have on your parent and what you can do to help them so that they can cope with their condition and preserve their health and quality of life as they age in place.
Use these tips to help your senior cope with depression:
• Encourage physical activity. Exercising is a fantastic way to manage depression. It boosts mood, releases endorphins, supports a better self-perception, and can aid in the management of health problems that further depression. When done together, exercise can also be a wonderful way to spend quality time together and make meaningful memories that can give your parent better mental and emotional stability.
• Get enough sleep. Sleep helps the mind heal and protects physical health. Depression can cause insomnia, keeping people from getting to sleep or staying asleep. It can also cause too much sleep. Help your parent to adapt good sleep habits and maintain a sleep routine that supports their health and well-being.
• Seek support. Help your parent find a support group or other professional that can provide encouragement and guide them in coping with their challenges. These provide a place for your parent to express themselves, receive advice, and feel they can discuss what they are going through without judgement.
• Check in with them. Just feeling that they are cared about can make a tremendous difference for your parent. Schedule calls and visits so that they always have something to look forward to and you can check on their condition so you can take steps to comfort and support them if needed.
Staring elder care for your aging parent can be one of the best decisions that you make for them as their family caregiver. Hiring an elder home care services provider is about boosting their quality of life, enhancing their lifestyle, and ensuring that they are getting all of the care, support, and assistance that they need both when you are able to be with them and when you are not.
This care provider will give your parent a high personalized set of services designed specifically to address their individual challenges, limitations, and needs in a way that is right for them. By keeping their individual personality, preferences, beliefs, and goals in mind, this care provider can ensure that their services are tailored toward keeping your parent safe, comfortable, and healthy, while also promoting as much independence, activity, and fulfillment as possible as they age in place.
Soources: https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Illness-Awareness-Week
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs381/en/
If you or an aging loved one are in need of Elder Care Services in Dix Hills NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
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