The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the course of our lives in more ways than can be covered in just one blog. However, one of the biggest challenges that most of us face today is home confinement and practicing social or physical distancing. Though it is a hard time for everyone, seniors are one of the most vulnerable groups; they are not only likely to be severely affected by the virus but are also at risk of being negatively impacted by self-isolation and feelings of loneliness. In the absence of professional home care assistance for seniors, younger family members will have to help aging parents with their daily chores while also trying to keep them engaged and positive. We understand that you may be on a work from home and may lack the requisite time, which is why we have made a list of activities that the seniors with limited mobility can either perform without your help or with little assistance:
1. Reading
Your parents may like to immerse themselves in a well-told story, so get them a book, a magazine, an e-reader, or an audiobook. Reading may help them feel relaxed and get rid of insomnia.
2. Explore different activities
You may not be the right person to provide your parents with medical care assistance, but you can surely be the one who knows which activity will help keep your parents calm. So, based on their liking, you can urge them to get involved in projects of their choice. But remember, it should be something that doesn’t require a lot of movement, such as, cooking, baking, birdwatching, knitting, learning a language, playing a musical instrument, etc.
3. Get regular exercise
The professionals offering home care assistance to seniors can help with exercises, beside assistance, and other daily chores. Now that you are the one taking care, you should also do the same; help your parent do exercises aimed at lifting their moods and health. Even if your parent isn’t very mobile, he/she can do specific exercises. For instance, performing chair yoga or simply walking using a walker.
4. Get creative
Various studies suggest that creative activities can help combat negative emotions and increase positive ones. So, you can help engage your parents in activities like drawing, coloring, painting, etc. Help motivate your loved one by encouraging them to pursue a creative outlet, and join in on the fun.
5. Puzzles
Puzzles are a fantastic source of fun times for people of all ages. And as many of these are available online, you can download them straight to you or your loved one’s smart gadget.
6. Video calls with friends
Social connections are important for all generations. So, after your work hours, you can help facilitate a video or facetime call with other family members or friends. Fostering these important connections will aid in lifting your elderly parent’s spirits.
As you take on the responsibilities of a caretaker providing home care assistance for senior members of your family, these points will help you keep them engaged, and reduce stress during this time at home.
Care Indeed - For Seniors Health Care 