The Ultimate Guide To Senior & Elder Care Planning
By Stefanie Shumaker, M.Div.
Chapter 8: How to help your loved one thrive during the later years
Is their living arrangement safe? Are there things you can do to ensure safety while also maintaining their independence a little longer? Can they manage their own medications? Who can help keep an eye on them? What brings them joy and lifts their spirits?
You might help your loved one identify a new hobby or social opportunity. The focus on something new might keep them motivated toward being healthy and taking care of themselves. One of my hospice patients took up painting in his early 80’s and created stacks of beautiful canvas paintings that will be passed on and enjoyed by his family for generations to come.
Consider hiring caregivers to visit, assist with meals, take them on
a drive, spend time with them a few hours a day or several times a week. Your loved one may benefit from a companion on the days that you or other family members are unable to spend time with them.
Continue to have that conversation about current hopes and needs, and how things might change as time goes. Always do your best to make sure your loved one feels heard.
Download a printable and sharable version (PDF) of this guide.
Helping families along Utah’s Wasatch Front: Salt Lake City area, Park City, Ogden, Logan, Provo, and Orem.
