Though many older adults acclimate smoothly when a new caregiver comes into the home, and begin to enjoy a higher quality of life, there are some seniors who may continue to feel threatened. At CareFor, we’re especially sensitive to the feelings of a senior who is resistant to care. We’re skilled in helping to ease concerns and restore peace.
Someone who is adamant that a caregiver is simply not required may employ one of these common techniques:
- Hiding activities. If an agreement has been made for the person to stop driving, for example, they may continue to drive when no one is around. Another example is refusing to stick to a diabetic diet, eating unhealthily in private.
- Becoming argumentative. Irritations at being identified as incapable of self-care may present as an increase in arguments, even over relatively trivial issues. It’s important to recognize the underlying sense that the person needs to prove their ability to continue to be in control and in charge.
- Distancing from loved ones. The older adult may display irritation through becoming standoffish and refusing necessary support from family members. For instance, an adult child who usually accompanies the person to medical appointments may now be prohibited by the person from entering the exam room.
- Making unsafe choices. An older adult who is encouraged to rest and allow someone else to take care of a task that may now be unsafe, such as climbing a ladder to replace a lightbulb, might do just the opposite to show that they are still capable of activities like this, which could cause a fall and serious injury.
How Can I Help a Loved One Accept and Thrive With Home Care?
The truth is, no one wants to feel as though they’re unable to meet their own day-to-day needs, or that they’re in a state of decline. It’s necessary to validate the important role the senior continues to play in our lives, and let them know often that they are valued and needed. Several ways to achieve this include:
- Spend plenty of time listening to and engaging in conversations with the senior.
- Ask the senior for advice.
- Reminisce regarding ways the senior has influenced your life.
- Enlist the senior’s help in meaningful tasks.
A professional caregiver from CareFor will comprehend the many emotions seniors experience and the ways in which those emotions may present. All of our caregivers are trained and experienced in helping restore a sense of self-worth and pleasure in life.
Call us at (512) 338-4533 for additional tips and resources to pave the way to a smoother journey through aging! We offer a complimentary in-home assessment to answer any questions you have and to recommend a plan of care to address the particular needs of a senior you love in Austin, San Antonio, Waco, and the surrounding areas.