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Updated: May 1, 2023
As you age, it becomes harder to handle certain aspects of life. Physical limitations make some tasks difficult, forcing you to reevaluate how you live your life and relate with loved ones. Similarly, mental changes may kick in and make it hard for you to adapt to new situations.
Experiencing all these can lead to more life-threatening conditions like depression. To enhance your well-being, you need to know about some of the biggest concerns for seniors. This article provides you with critical information on how to improve your quality of life and overcome common challenges as you age.
Supporting Older Adults with Chronic Conditions
With age comes an increased risk of chronic conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, heart disease, and cancer. According to the National Council on Aging, more than 80% of seniors suffer from one chronic health condition, while 68% have at least two.
These statistics imply that health professionals and caregivers in the Chicago, IL - Hyde Park neighborhood are necessary. They can support seniors living with chronic illnesses in the following ways:
Educate Them About Their Condition.
It's crucial that seniors understand the chronic conditions they're suffering from and how they affect their well-being. The more informed they are about their condition, the easier it is for them to manage it effectively.
Explain the Diagnosis to Them.
If a senior is dealing with a persistent illness, they're likely to be confused about the diagnosis. They are made aware by offering adequate information about their condition, medication side effects, and care plans.
Discuss Treatment Plans with Them.
Let the older adults know whether their medication plan requires a lifestyle change, frequent checkups, or a specific diet. Moreover, try to resolve any misunderstandings that may make those with chronic conditions stop adhering to their treatment.
Older Adults and People with Disabilities
Transportation barriers can significantly affect the quality of life among older adults and people living with disabilities in the Chicago, IL – Hyde Park neighborhood. Because many seniors and people with disabilities experience challenges while driving, they depend on friends, family members, or public transport to move around.
When there are no reliable means of transport, people miss vital healthcare appointments and other schedules. The condition can become further complicated for those in rural communities, far away from social amenities and healthcare centers.
Seniors and people with disabilities who find it hard to drive can benefit from life care at home services. An in-home caregiver can conveniently drive you to medical centers and important appointments at any time.
Chronic Conditions: Quality of Life Changes
If you have COPD, you are among 80 percent of adults age 65 and older who struggle with chronic conditions that negatively impact their ability to live independently, according to the National Council on Aging. In addition to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), arterial diseases, heart failure, coronary heart disease, hypertension, kidney disease and diabetes are among the most common. Other chronic conditions include respiratory diseases such as emphysema and asthma, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease and arthritis.
Here are some tips to improve your quality of life:
Arrange for assistance with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping and transportation to medical appointments. As your condition progresses, you also may want help with bathing, dressing and other personal tasks.
Ask spouses and others often pitch in, or it may benefit you to rely on a trusted weekly housekeeper. Also, consider the benefits of a trained homecare provider. They know how to organize multiple prescriptions with a specific schedule, dietary requirements and activity requirements. Because managing a dosage routine can be complicated, ask for help if you need it.
If you’re tech savvy, look into using automated dispensers or phone apps to provide timely reminders for medications. You can visit a Walgreens outlet near you and ask the pharmacist to assist you with downloading their phone app.
Chronic conditions inhibit endurance and mobility, but it’s still important exercise—even if you must use a wheelchair or walker. This can help you maintain your ability levels and lift your spirits. Friends, homecare workers or companions can help you feel more confident if they’re nearby when you exercise at home, travel to medical appointments or run errands.
To secure the services of a home care provider, allow a week or two for clarifying care arrangements. Life Care at Home helps pinpoint the kinds of support needed whether for chronic conditions or recuperating from surgery or rehab.
How Support from Professional Home Care Providers is Essential
Lifecare at-home systems in Chicago, IL – Hyde Park neighborhood are essential because they offer daily structure and assistance to seniors. Caregivers help older adults cope with varied challenges of aging, such as declining mental and physical health, loss of vision or hearing, depression, and dementia.
This allows seniors to enjoy quality relationships with their loved ones without being too dependent on them. Professional home care providers can help seniors take medication correctly, get to their doctor's appointments, eat healthy meals, and maintain personal hygiene. They act as an extra set of eyes to look out for falls in older adults who are less mobile.
Senior Living with Support from Life Care at Home
Living in a place where you feel safe and secure is one of your top priorities as you age. Life Care at Home support ensures you enjoy your quality of life under your favorite conditions. Our services in Chicago, IL - Hyde Park neighborhood are designed to help you live an independent and comfortable life.
Through our caregivers, you enjoy convenient access to support and amenities in an environment tailored specifically for you. Contact us today for more information about our senior living programs.
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