Do you have any advice for caregivers of senior citizens?

Be ready for change.
Understanding and embracing change is the most crucial and challenging component of caring for older parents. Your parents’ mood, attitude, mobility, personality, and other characteristics may change dramatically over time. It’s critical to recognize that it’s normal and needs a great deal of patience and understanding. Keep in mind that your parent isn’t accustomed to being looked after, particularly by their child. Anger outbursts or rapid mood swings are common occurrences.
• When you require assistance, ask for it.
Caring for an ageing parent can be a full-time job. Don’t be ashamed to seek assistance from siblings, close relatives, or even a caretaker to relieve you of some of your responsibilities. Many home health care agencies offer care to families that require temporary assistance protecting ageing loved ones.
• Maintain your physical and emotional well-being.
Rest and delegate responsibilities to others – take time to replenish your energy. It’s natural to feel guilty about taking care of yourself, but realize that it’s equally essential to maintain your health and well-being to provide the best possible care for your parents.
• Develop deep relationships with caregivers and healthcare providers.
Maintaining contact with healthcare providers and caregivers is an excellent method to stay informed about any drugs or special requirements your parent may require.
• The importance of communication
In addition to communicating with healthcare providers, it’s also necessary to share with siblings and relatives to address any significant changes in your parent’s health or behaviour.
• Make it a habit to get up and go to bed at the same time every day.
Senior adults with Alzheimer’s or dementia must have consistent bedtimes and wake-up times to boost their mood and overall health. It helps with the better structure of the day and makes the rest of the day’s schedule easier to follow. It also encourages your older loved one to get the required 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.
• Have regular mealtime.
In addition to sleeping and waking up on a schedule, having consistent mealtimes is vital for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Meals eaten at the correct times might aid digestion throughout the day, prevent low blood sugar and its consequences, and allow older family members to take their medicines regularly. Include enjoyable activities in your everyday routine.
• Pay attention to your loved one’s hobbies.
For instance, if they like walking the dog, schedule time to do so daily. Every day doesn’t have to be the same, but it should contain at least one or two activities that your loved one enjoys, such as working on a crossword puzzle, playing cards, or going to the park.