4 Ways Caregivers Help Aging Adults with Critical Illnesses

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Tips Caregivers Help Aging Adults with Critical Illnesses in Des Moines, IA

When a senior loved one is critically ill, it’s important to support him or her with the right type of care. Professional caregivers play a valuable role in helping ill seniors and their families handle the challenges associated with aging in place while living with a critical illness.

1. They Assist with Medication Reminders

When living with critical illnesses, seniors are often prescribed multiple medications, which can be difficult to keep up with when they’re not feeling well. For this reason, professional caregivers are trained to help seniors stick to their medication schedules by providing medication reminders, and they also guard against overdosing and keep an eye out for signs of bad reactions to new medications. If your loved one does have a problem with a medication, speak with his or her medical team to report what you’ve observed. Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading homecare services agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.

2. They Stay Alert for Changes in Health

A senior’s health can fluctuate rapidly when he or she is critically ill, which is why care often needs to be provided around the clock. If a senior’s fever spikes during the night, an overnight caregiver will notice. Additionally, the caregiver can alert emergency services immediately if the senior suddenly takes a turn for the worse.

3. They Promote Emotional Health

Having strong emotional health plays a major role in helping seniors battle serious illnesses. Caregivers provide opportunities for socialization that help seniors stay positive. From offering a gentle smile upon entering the senior’s room to sharing a joke he or she read in an email, a caregiver can lighten the mood every day. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of elderly home care. Des Moines Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.

4. They Prevent Injuries

Independent-minded seniors are often tempted to do more than their bodies can handle when they’re ill. Often, a senior’s health worsens due to an injury sustained while trying to cook or take a bath. Caregivers help with these and other daily tasks so seniors are less likely to slip and fall as they move through the house. Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Des Moines seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more. Home Care Assistance will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (515) 264-2438 to learn more about our customized care plans.

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