How To Take Better Care Of Elderly Relatives After The Pandemic

Our parents and grandparents, along with those more vulnerable members of our family, have likely struggled greatly during the pandemic. The spread of loneliness from isolation is far-reaching and some may have even struggled with the virus themselves.

Many of us understandably feel a responsibility to look after these family members, especially now that social distancing, lockdown, and quarantine rules have changed. Balancing this care with the responsibilities of our daily lives, however, is not an easy task. We’ve compiled a few things to consider if you’re in this situation.

Working From Home

Whilst the discussion is still ongoing, there are many businesses considering remote working to be a permanent addition to their business structure. Taking advantage of this new and healthy mentality will mean that whilst you’re working, you are free to assist these older relatives and provide a level of comfort and company that they might dearly need. One of the greatest concerns for people in this situation that have to work in the office, is that they won’t be around in time if something goes wrong, and professional help is needed. Strike up the conversation with your employer and explain the situation. Flexibility on the part of businesses is required now, more than ever and many will understand this.

In-Home Care

If you can’t afford to work from home, or your employer just can’t spare you the time, there are some other ways around this situation. Finding professional home care services in Bath such as those from Abney & Baker could be the right choice for you and your loved ones. This type of service will not only make you feel at ease knowing there is someone there to take care of your family members, but you’ll also be allowing them to continue their lives with a sense of independence in their own home.

Keeping In Touch

Loneliness has become somewhat of a pandemic in itself, with so many elderly and vulnerable people going for over a year without any form of prolonged contact with friends and family. One of the easiest and most important things you can do is to make sure you’re keeping in touch with them. When you have a busy life, it can be difficult to remember that others might not be doing much at all. Your packed days might fly by at the click of a finger, whereas someone stuck indoors with not much to do can feel the days dragging, especially with limited contact. A few messages here and there, and regular phone calls will help your loved ones remember that you care about them and will also give them the boost they need to get through the day in a positive mood.

Promote Mental Wellness

As well as keeping in touch, encouraging your elderly relatives to stay mentally and physically active is a great way of encouraging good mental health. There are lots of activities that can inspire wellness and it’s important that you help these loved ones find a sense of purpose in later life. If they can do some volunteering work for example, they’ll not only be helping others, but they’ll also find that they’re helping themselves too. Taking up a hobby, especially a productive one is also a great way of staying active, in mind and body. Make a list of possible ideas that align with their interests and ideals and decide of some activities together.