| There is no such thing as a second childhood. Your parents or
spouse, whatever their problems or disabilities, are not children.
To treat them as children can only weaken their pride, self-confidence,
self-sufficiency, and enthusiasm for life.
Adults must be treated with dignity and respect. Trusting them
to handle their own chores or problems, without interference will
best reflect your loving concern.
Help Them To Help Themselves
An important rule of thumb is to allow your parents/spouse to handle
just as much as they can without assistance. Because something has
become difficult does not make it undesirable. Everyone needs the
feeling of accomplishment. Few things can be more depressing than
to give up, one by one, the tasks you've always managed for yourself.
The older adult may move slower and not as steadily, but any task
of which he is capable and which is not physically taxing should
not be taken away.
This discussion on assisting with personal care needs should provide
some procedures and hints to guide you through the necessary daily
activities. Remember that your loved one is an individual with his
or her own special wants and needs. Don't be afraid to try something
new or to initiate ideas which may work. |
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