Many articles on senior care in the Philadelphia, Bucks County,
and Delaware County regions focus on avoiding negative outcomes,
reducing costs, navigating insurance/Medicare mazes, and generally
mitigating against the worst possible outcomes. While managing and
anticipating problems-to-come is a key aspect of senior care, you
also want to ensure the quality of life for your loved one(s). So
here are some ideas to turn caregiving into an emotionally rewarding
(and, yes, even fun) experience.
Seniors (by and large) love companionship. Encourage your senior to
participate in community outreach groups, travel/tour programs,
further education, and social networking. Studies show that seniors
who get out of the house, meet new people, and forge new experiences
tend to live longer and more vital lives. Tap into the resources of
your community: get involved in local theater in Chestnut Hill or
Springfield; explore the historic architecture of old Philadelphia;
go to antique stores in Glen Mills and Narberth. The best senior
care services also encourage vigorous exercise (at appropriate
levels). Check out senior yoga, water aerobics, dancing, and
strength training programs. Don't forget to challenge and build
mental faculties: urge your loved one to play chess or bridge, do
crossword puzzles, and join book discussion groups. Exercise of key
facilities leads to better mental health and self-esteem.
In addition to employing community resources, make a concerted
effort to visit often and to encourage friends and relatives to
check on your loved one. A regular visit from you, even if you can
only show up one a month, will give your senior a schedule 'anchor'
– something to plan for and get excited about. If you're a parent,
encourage your children to write to their elderly relatives and
share stories about the past and the future. Forge intergenerational
ties to bond your family.
