Effective Tips to take care of your Grandparents

July 26 2024 TalktoAngel 0 comments 238 Views

As people grow older, they undergo significant physical and mental changes that require attention and care. Physically, ageing often brings about a decline in strength, mobility, and flexibility. Once effortless tasks become more challenging, everyday activities like cooking, cleaning, and even personal hygiene more difficult. Health issues such as arthritis, cardiovascular problems, and diabetes become more prevalent, requiring regular medical attention and sometimes assistance with medication management. Mentally, ageing can lead to cognitive decline, memory loss, and in some cases, conditions like dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These changes can be distressing for both the grandparents and their family members, necessitating a supportive and understanding approach.

What do our Grandparents need?

Understanding and presence are crucial for grandparents as they navigate their later years. Many elderly individuals may experience feelings of loneliness or isolation, especially if they have lost a spouse or friend. They often cherish the company of family members; whose visits and interactions provide emotional support and alleviate feelings of abandonment. Grandchildren play a particularly important role in bringing joy and a sense of purpose to their grandparents' lives. Spending quality time together, engaging in activities they enjoy, and simply listening to their stories can significantly enhance their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.

Tips to Take Care of Our Grandparents

To effectively care for grandparents, consider implementing several practical tips that address their physical, emotional, and social needs:

1. Regular Health Monitoring and Medical Care: Schedule regular check-ups with healthcare professionals to monitor their physical health, manage chronic conditions, and address any emerging issues promptly. Encourage them to follow prescribed treatments and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Mrs. Sharma, a grandmother in Delhi, visits her family doctor every month for routine check-ups. Her family ensures she receives timely medical attention for her diabetes and arthritis, helping manage her conditions effectively.

2. Ensure Safety at Home: Modify their living environment to ensure it's safe and accessible. This may include installing grab bars in bathrooms, removing tripping hazards, improving lighting, and considering assistive devices such as walkers or wheelchairs if necessary.

Mr. and Mrs. Patel from Mumbai renovated their home to include handrails and non-slip flooring to prevent falls for Mr. Patel, who has mobility issues. These modifications have their son and daughter significantly reduced the risk of accidents and increased his confidence in moving around the house.

3. Encourage Physical Activity: Engage grandparents in gentle exercises or activities suitable for their fitness level to promote mobility and strength. This could involve short walks, chair exercises, yoga, or tai chi, depending on their capabilities and preferences.

In Bangalore, Mr. Rao, a grandfather, attends a weekly yoga class organized by a local senior citizens' club. The gentle exercises motivated by their grandchildren have improved his flexibility and reduced joint pain, enhancing his overall physical well-being.

4. Provide Nutritious Meals: Ensure they have access to balanced and nutritious meals that support their health and energy levels. Consider their dietary preferences and any dietary restrictions or recommendations from healthcare providers.

In Kolkata, Mrs. Banerjee's family ensures she receives home-cooked meals that cater to her dietary needs. They include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support her heart health and maintain her energy levels.

5. Promote Social Interaction: Combat feelings of loneliness by encouraging social interactions. Arrange visits with family members, friends, or neighbours, and explore opportunities for them to participate in community activities, clubs, or senior centers where they can socialize and engage with others.

In Chennai, Mr. and Mrs. Krishnan’s family regularly encourages them to visit their neighborhood senior center, where they participate in group activities and meet new friends. These social interactions have enriched their lives and provided them with a sense of community.

6. Support Emotional Well-being: Listen actively to their concerns and provide emotional support. Ageing can bring about feelings of anxiety, depression, an ger, or frustration, so empathetic communication and reassurance are invaluable. Encourage them to pursue hobbies or interests that bring them joy and fulfillment.

In Hyderabad, Mr. Reddy's family members frequently engage in open conversations with him about his feelings and concerns. Their empathetic approach helps him navigate feelings of loneliness and boosts his emotional resilience.

7. Respect Their Independence: While providing support, it's essential to respect their autonomy and preferences. Involve them in decision-making processes regarding their care and daily activities, allowing them to maintain a sense of control and dignity.

In Pune, Mrs. Deshpande's family involves her in decisions regarding her daily routine and healthcare choices. This respect for her autonomy preserves her sense of dignity and independence as she ages.

Importance of Therapy and Counselling for Grandparents

In addition to these practical tips, the importance of counseling and therapy for grandparents cannot be overstated. Many elderly individuals may benefit from professional support to cope with the emotional challenges of ageing, manage grief or loss, or address mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety. Online Counseling sessions from top psychologist in India can provide a safe space for them to express their feelings, gain insights into managing stressors, and learn coping strategies to enhance their overall well-being.

Furthermore, therapy at platforms like TalktoAngel is tailored for the geriatric population and can help them address the cognitive decline, memory issues, or behavioural changes associated with conditions like dementia. Therapists or the best clinical psychologists in India specializing in geriatrics employ techniques to improve cognitive function, enhance memory recall, and promote mental clarity through structured interventions and cognitive exercises.

Taking care of grandparents involves a holistic approach that considers their physical health, emotional well-being, and social needs. By providing understanding, presence, and implementing effective caregiving strategies, we can contribute to their quality of life and ensure they age with dignity and comfort. Access to counseling and online therapy further enhances their support system, addressing specific challenges associated with aging and promoting overall mental and emotional resilience. As we honor and care for our grandparents, we recognize their invaluable contributions to our lives and the importance of reciprocating that love and care as they enter their golden years.

Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach & Mr. Utkarsh Yadav, Counselling Psychologist

References:

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/improving-family-relationships-with-emotional-intelligence.htm

https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/shifting-forward/202211/grandparenting-grand-job-great-rewards-all-involved

https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/literally-psyched/the-psychology-behind-gift-giving-and-generosity/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14641402/