Senior Living: Helping Your Aging Loved One Adjust To Loss Of Independence
Naturally, increasing in age comes with the lost ability to participate in some activities of daily living. As such, the elderly need assistance with their daily tasks. As such, it would be prudent to enroll them in an assisted living facility. But such a move can be tough for an adult who has been active and independent throughout their life. They are used to catering to their needs without help.
Unfortunately, loss of mobility and mental decline can make it hard for your loved one to stay independent in their old age. As such, it is important to acknowledge this loss of autonomy. Also, you must help them deal with accompanying feelings of frustration or sadness. Here are some crucial tips to steer you through this undertaking.
What the Loss Looks Like
First, you must understand that the loss of functional autonomy presents itself in various forms. For instance, your relative might lose the ability to walk, hear, eat or make decisions. Usually, losing the ability to care for themselves or perform these basic tasks can be highly frustrating. Some older adults may experience difficulties sleeping, memory loss, or severe illness.
In general, losing independence at this age is due to uncontrollable life changes. You should remind your elderly parent that this is a natural part of aging. But while assisting them through this transition, exercise a lot of patience. That is because some elderly individuals may find it hard to accept help. Also, convince them that the situation could become better by joining a senior living facility.
Adjusting to a New Lifestyle
The best way to adjust to the loss of independence is by moving to a senior living community. Typically, assisted living facilities ease the burdens of everyday life for aging people. They do so by offering services such as cleaning, preparing meals, self-grooming, and more. More importantly, your aged family member will easily cope with their lost autonomy through interactions with their fellow residents.
For example, a relative who can't walk will receive an automated wheelchair so they can move around independently. Such aids can drastically improve the quality of life and help them accept the new lifestyle. Furthermore, they will find new passions and make friends in the facility. This can help eliminate self-isolation and feelings of loneliness. Ultimately, your senior family member will have an easier time coping and accepting their new normal.
As you can see, senior living facilities provide a great avenue to help aging adults handle independence loss. Once they adjust to their new lifestyle, it will be easier to find their way in life again.