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Potential Challenges of a Care Giver That Deals With the Elderly in Orlando, Florida

If you are the care giver of an elderly spouse, relative, or friend then you are or will become aware that there are many challenges of dealing with the elderly. These challenges include, but are not limited to the following challenges:

1.    Diminished faculties (hearing, vision, ability to think and/or talk);

2.    Paranoid, not trusting anyone;

3.    Dementia/Alzheimer’s;

4.    Vulnerable;

5.    Scared.

You can help ease the elderly person’s frustration by being patient with them; and listening carefully to what they say. You should talk slowly to them. Do not talk fast. Give them time to listen to what you say and process it, before you continue to talk to them. You should try to keep their routine the same as their current routine. Change of routine or habit can be difficult and challenging for the elderly. Consistency is a plus in helping them cope with their current living situation. 

You should make sure they are dressed appropriately if they are still able to groom and dress themselves. You should make sure they that they eat; and that what they eat is nutritious. Make sure that the air or heat in the house is appropriate. Make sure that the house is clean and in proper repair. Make sure they are aware of their location, name, family, medications, and when and how much medication they take. They may need assistant with this. You may want to check with a caregiver agency if you are working or need respite. Make sure they are keeping all their regularly scheduled doctor appointments; and they have the proper appointments scheduled. 

 It may be more challenging and difficult to assist them if they are frightened, and maybe have diminished capacity. You should have them checked out medically by their primary doctor and/or a neurologist. Remember, always treat them with respect. Remember, they are your spouse, parent, uncle, aunt, or friend. Treat them as you would want yourself treated.

Make sure you take care of yourself too. Bring a caregiver can be all consuming. You may forget that your health and well-being is extremely important too. You need to make time to care for yourself. This can be difficult with all your duties, as you may also work and you may also have children that you are responsible for their care. 

If you have more questions regarding a Marital and Family Law matter, you may call Ann Marie Giordano Gilden at Ann Marie Giordano Gilden, P.A. at 407-732-7620 and set an initial consultation. You may also visit my website at: https//: www.AnnMarieGildenLaw.com

This article is for informational purposes only; and it does not form an attorney client privilege.