If your senior parent is living independently but trying to manage a chronic condition they may need extra help at home. For seniors, being diagnosed with a chronic condition like diabetes, arthritis, or heart disease means lots of lifestyle changes that can be tough for them. But those changes are necessary to make sure that their condition doesn’t get worse. 24-hour home care providers help seniors who have chronic conditions manage their conditions at home.
It can be especially difficult for seniors with diabetes to learn how to regulate their diabetes because they have to test regularly, eat at different times, and be very diligent about taking their medication on time.
If your senior parent has 24-hour home care someone will be with them around the clock to make sure they are ok.
A care provider can help your senior parent with things like:
Medication Reminders
Your mom or dad probably is taking several different prescriptions to manage their symptoms. Remembering when and how to take multiple medications can be confusing. Missing doses or taking the wrong amount can cause serious health problems for your senior parent. Caregivers ensure medications are taken on time and in the right way, even overnight, so that your mom or dad’s treatment stays on track.
Healthy Meals and Snacks
Nutrition is an important part of managing some health conditions. For example, diabetes requires careful blood sugar control, and blood sugar can be affected by what your mom or dad eats and when they eat.
Seniors with heart disease needs to eat low-sodium, heart-healthy meals. Caregivers can prepare nutritious meals based on what your mom or dad needs to help manage their condition. A care provider can help your mom or dad adjust to a new type of diet. And they can make healthy meals fun and appetizing so that your mom or dad wants to eat healthy.
Help with Physical Activity
Exercise is another lifestyle change that can help seniors manage chronic conditions. It can reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and boost heart health.
If your senior parent is typically sedentary a caregiver can encourage them to move more and make movement for them, like using a balloon to play balloon volleyball or tossing a bean bag in a bucket while seated in a chair.
Monitoring and Preventing Emergencies
Chronic conditions can sometimes lead to emergencies. For example, blood sugar levels can drop too low, or breathing problems may occur. Having a caregiver with your mom or dad around the clock means that a caregiver can get emergency help for your mom or dad if they need it.
Emotional Support and Companionship
Living with a chronic condition can be scary and lonely. Your mom or dad may struggle with anxiety or depression after their diagnosis. And they might not want to tell you about how they are feeling.
Caregivers provide companionship and emotional support for your mom or dad. They listen, share conversations, and keep seniors engaged with activities. This connection boosts mental health and prevents feelings of loneliness.