Old age simply refers to those years that surpass the life expectancy of human beings. This is usually the end of the human life cycle. Terms and euphemisms include old people, the elderly, seniors, senior citizens, older adults, and the elders. The accepted age to be called an older citizen varies among countries, organizations, and benefit programs. 

However, the average age is between 60-65 years. Aging comes with many responsibilities, on the part of both the aged and those around, things like interest, movement, feeding, and activities begin to change drastically. If one isn’t careful, the senior might just become a shadow of themselves. Older adults require utmost care, love, and attention from their families and all those around them. 

Often, we may not be available to care for the elderly considering that we have to work hard and earn a living to fend for them, coupled with the fact we also have our own lives to live and activities to carry out. However, it is our responsibility to find someone responsible for caring for them and providing them essential services. Hence, the need to employ the services of a caregiver experienced in the arts and science of older people care.

What Exactly Do Old People Need Help In?

Often, people ask this question as they are ignorant of what the elderly will need help doing, considering they sometimes look fit enough to carry out activities on their own. However, they still need a little help once in a while to carry out basic things referred to as IADL (instrumental activities of daily living) by medical practitioners. Examples include running errands, transporting themselves to appointments, community centers, parks, and other places of interest. They need help preparing their meals, managing their finances, keeping in touch with loved ones, and taking their medications at the right time with the proper dosage. In a situation where they are weak and old, they will require help carrying out ADL (activities of daily living), including getting dressed, eating, maintaining personal hygiene, and moving. These are ways you can help them achieve this even when you are away from them:

Identify Their Problems And Basic Needs 

Many people are surprised when they find out that older adults do not always want the same things, and their health is an excellent determinant of their needs and level of independence. For example, older people who only need IADL can live independently, needing only primary care by caregivers who can stop by once or twice a week. On the other hand, assisted living and skilled nursing care communities are available for those elders who require more direct care. Once you understand your options and what the elderly person needs, you can create a long-term care plan.

Pass Information Across

In a situation where other people will be actively or passively involved in caring for the older person, it is imperative to pass information about your identification and findings. You should discuss and agree on how everyone intends to participate in this activity and then make a convenient schedule for everyone, assigning different responsibilities in a situation where no one will be available. Plans should be made on how to make use of the services of a caregiver.

Gather Contact Information

Whether there is a long distance between you and the older adult or you are glued to them every second, you will need to actively communicate with the medical team and other caregivers using the telephone in a case where there is an emergency or for inquiries. It is vital to create a contact list of phone numbers such as the primary physician, nurse, insurance company, and local emergency services. If you are far away and a caregiver is employed, include their contact information and then someone else who can quickly dash in to check up on them, such as a near neighbor or family friend. This way, you can be able to keep track of their activities and ensure they are safe. 

Have An Emergency And Backup Plan

It is advised to always plan for a health crisis emergency before it happens. Know which airlines offer direct flights, and create an emergency fund for travel expenses in a situation where the caregiver is unavoidably absent. Ensure that there is always money on standby in a situation when a need arises, and endeavor to always provide for their basic needs.

Ensure Maximum Security 

Always ensure that the elderly are safe, as they are prone to danger. If they live independently,  have a security system installed at their home. Video surveillance and medical alert alarms are beneficial for older people. If they live in nursing homes, make inquiries about security measures.

Always Keep In Touch

Old age comes with loneliness, and older people crave love and attention. So it is essential to always keep in touch with them, visit when possible and have long conversations with them even when what they are saying makes no sense to you. You could talk about their favorite things when they were younger, beautiful memories, read the books, go through photo albums. They need all the care and affection.

It is okay to live distant from your elderly folks, but it is necessary to make life easy and comfortable for them. It may be stressful and demanding, but you will be glad you did.