4.1 Care for the Normal Dependent Adult |
Arranging a Room
- An elderly person's room should be bright and cheerful. It's
a myth that the aged derive serenity from quiet and drab surroundings.
They need and enjoy visual stimulation.
- Respect the older person's possessions. Some small or vintage
object may be a necessary link with the past. Never discard, rearrange
or store objects without asking.
- Be aware of physical needs. Close proximity to a bathroom is
a must. A room downstairs is a good idea, if possible.
- Provide a clock (with a large face and clear numbers) and a
calendar. A slight disorientation in time can become a terrifying
and humiliating experience.
- A night light is most welcome to those who get up during the
night to use the bathroom.
- A radio, bed-lamp and some reading matter may make a world
of difference to the insomniac or the early riser.
- Remove clutter and bulky furniture from main traffic areas
to avoid stumbles and falls.
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Being Part of the Family
- Like anyone else, an older person needs warmth and affection.
Offer it freely. Physical contact - holding a person's hand, taking
a person's arm - helps them to feel wanted.
- Often an older woman will attach herself very strongly to a
grandchild. This can be a positive experience for both parties.
It says something about the continuity of life. It's important,
however, that the roles remain clear and Grandma is not seen as
a substitute mother, but as an added source of love and warmth,
advice, and concern.
- Older adults will feel needed if their advice is sought on
family matters and if asked to participate in family decisions.
You may be surprised to discover a clarity of thought and a skill
for working things out smoothly.
- Older persons may spend much of their time reminiscing. If
you're a willing listener, you'll bring them much pleasure and
you will benefit from the heightened awareness of your roots and
heritage.
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Sleeping Habits |
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Frequently an older person requires less sleep.
Five hours may be all he needs. If he goes to bed at 10:00 p.m.
and wakes up refreshed at 3:00 a.m., he may become agitated and
concerned and work unsuccessfully to get back to sleep.
He should be encouraged to get up when it's clear that his night's
sleep is over. Reading, listening to the radio or engaging in a
favorite activity should be encouraged. If the problem is getting
to sleep at night, a hot drink or a warm bath will help him to relax.
Sleeping pills should not be taken except on a physician's recommendation. |
Attitudes |
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Older persons may, at times, experience depression.
Sometimes it will present itself as a physical problem such as insomnia,
constipation, aches and pains. It is usually accompanied by an uncommunicative
attitude and a lack of interest. Severe depression is a problem
for a physician, but mild depression is something that a person
can usually work out for himself. Trust him. He perceives your attitudes.
If you have a feeling of hopelessness about him, it will diminish
his capacity to deal effectively with his problems.
If, on the other hand, you feel confident that he'll work things
out, he may justify your faith in him. Be available to sit and talk
if your loved one so desires.
Sometimes the older person may feel insecure and anxious. There
are disturbing changes taking place in his life. His physical capacity
has diminished and sometimes he's not quite sure of his role in
the world. A cheerful, hopeful attitude on your part will help to
lift some of his anxiety. |
Boredom |
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One of the greatest problems the older person faces
is boredom. Everyone needs a certain amount of stimulation. Your
aging relative is no different. His room should provide privacy,
but never become a prison. He should be encouraged to spend much
of his day away from it. Allow the older adult to choose his own-activities.
No one, young or old, likes to have their leisure time planned for
them. |
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