Keeping active at home

Working with the elderly and how to make your day together successful:

Keeping active at home

We want to openly share with the family members of the elderly some ideas about the ways you can make your day successful. This time, in our section: Working with the elderly, we discuss ways to stay active at home.

Engaging in daily chores and activities can help elderly individuals stay active, maintain their independence, and promote a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Here are some good practices regarding daily chores for elderly individuals to keep themselves active:

1. Adapt tasks to their abilities: Ensure the tasks are appropriate for the elderly person’s physical and cognitive abilities. If necessary, adapt tasks by breaking them down into smaller steps or using assistive devices such as grabbers or long-handled dustpans.
2. Prioritize safety: Safety should be the top priority when engaging in daily chores. Ensure the elderly can access necessary safety equipment, such as non-slip mats or safety bars, in the bathroom.
3. Choose enjoyable activities: Encourage the elderly to choose activities they enjoy, such as gardening or cooking. This can help motivate them to engage in daily chores and promote a sense of satisfaction.
4. Incorporate physical activity: Many daily chores, such as cleaning or gardening, can provide a moderate level of physical activity. Encourage the elderly to engage in activities that promote movement, such as stretching or taking a short walk.
5. Provide support: Provide support and encouragement as needed to help the elderly person complete daily chores. This can include offering assistance with complex tasks or providing positive feedback for a job well done.
6. Schedule activities: Creating a routine or schedule for daily chores can help elderly individuals stay organized and motivated. Encourage them to set achievable goals and break up larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

In summary, engaging in daily chores can help elderly individuals stay active and independent. Caregivers should prioritize safety, adapt tasks to the individual’s abilities, choose enjoyable activities, incorporate physical activity, provide support, and schedule activities to encourage regular engagement.