Aging often comes with many changes, from health to mobility. According to research, two-thirds of seniors need help doing one or more daily activities. Even with assistive devices at home, the study revealed that 6% of seniors limited their activities and mobility, while 21% needed a helping hand to move around. These statistics show why it’s important to establish a healthy daily routine for your elderly loved one. This can contribute significantly to their quality of life and help them maintain independence for as long as possible. Below are a few simple tips to help you create a daily routine for your aging parents.
- Establish a healthy sleeping pattern
Adequate sleep is crucial for older people. Unfortunately, many of them struggle to sleep at night, so you need to help them establish a regular sleep pattern. You can help your aging parents by encouraging them to go to bed at a consistent time. Although they may initially resist, constantly remind them that a consistent bedtime routine benefits their health. Also, ensure your parents have a relaxing bedtime routine, whether reading their favorite book or listening to soothing music. It’s also best to avoid serving them anything containing caffeine before bedtime. Going to bed is one thing, but getting out is another, leading to the next point.
- Create a routine for getting out of bed
For many elderly, getting out of bed in the morning can be challenging, but you can help make that easier with a routine. Start by making a bedside rail available to give your aging parent something to hold on to when getting up. Next, ensure that everything they need in the morning is accessible. For example, you can place their glasses next to their bedside or help them pick their outfit for the next day so they don’t need to fumble through the wardrobe. A bedside alarm clock may also prove beneficial. And if they need some medications first thing in the morning, make them available bedside with a glass of water.
- Prioritize social engagement
The last thing you want is for your aging parent to feel alone. Unfortunately, loneliness is one of the common issues most elderly people deal with. Social isolation can harm an elderly person’s mental and physical health, so ensuring that their routines do not involve being left alone for extended periods is best. Find ways to add social activities to their schedules. For example, you can encourage them to participate in community events, join senior clubs or interest groups, or volunteer their time and expertise. For instance, if your aging mother still loves to cook, she can help prepare some meals for a local shelter or charity. They can also lend their knowledge to the younger generation by engaging in intergenerational activities like mentoring programs.
- Include regular medical examinations
Aging adults need to go for regular medical examinations. So, help them book appointments, mark them on their daily calendars, and set reminders. Doing this is particularly important for early detection and treatment of age-related health issues. Hearing loss, for example, is quite common among older people. Studies have shown a connection between hearing loss and health, making it essential to prioritize your aging parents’ hearing health and other aspects of their well-being.
