Nobody wants to acknowledge that time is ticking forward and that the people we love are getting older. This never has to be a bad thing, of course, but there comes a certain time in your loved one’s life when you begin worrying a little more and thinking differently about the time you have left with them. It can be a difficult time and a worrying thing to process, but there are many ways to make the situation easier for everyone involved.
Support Them as Much as You Can
Some key changes may need to be made, so it’s important to provide a support system wherever possible, especially if your loved one lives alone. It may be that relevant changes in their home need to be made to help with their mobility, or they may need extra help with errands or other obligations.
If they are elderly, they may feel better in communities that cater to the elderly, such as Preserve at Marsh Creek. These homes are ideal for a quick move-in scenario, supposing some health issues arise and your loved one needs additional support, and are specifically built with amenities for a 55+ community.
Help Them to Socialize
Making sure your loved one has friends around them will make it a lot easier on you, as it means you won’t have to worry so much about them not having anyone to lean on.
Encouraging your loved one to get out in the community and make new friends of a similar age means they can stay socially engaged and active and have a support circle around them when you’re not there. This will provide them with positive relationships and experiences and you with peace of mind.
Make Plans for the Future
Reaching a certain age means particular plans need to be laid out, and although it’s never pleasant, it’s always for the good of your loved one to ensure everything is in place.
You should think about or discuss with your loved one the following:
- Making and preparing an official will
- The need for supported living or moving into a care facility
- Property changes, such as downsizing or moving to a home that is on one level
You should even discuss funeral preferences or preparations for when your loved one has passed. While this isn’t enjoyable to do, making preparations in advance will give you the time to grieve when the time comes properly without the worry of having to plan a funeral. You can get advice and meet with supportive funeral directors, like exithere.com. Remember, you can never prepare too much.
Let Them Retain Their Independence
Reaching an elderly age doesn’t mean you’re completely incapable, and allowing your loved one to keep their independence will benefit both of you. They don’t want to feel like you are trying to do everything for them if they are capable, so be sure to set up boundaries with what you should and shouldn’t be helping them.
Speak openly with them about their needs, as losing their independence might be a mental downward spiral and leave them lacking control over their lives.
Move Closer to Them
This isn’t crucial, of course, and may not be necessary, but it’s always an option if it helps you feel you can more easily support them. If you currently live a substantial distance away — or, perhaps, even in another country — you can always consider moving closer to your loved one once they reach a certain age and you want to support them in a better way. Of course, be sure to discuss this with them first!
