Addressing Changing Needs In Seniors During Aging
Getting older is a fact of life. It is something that cannot be stopped or altered. However, recognizing the changes that occur with aging and adjusting to one lifestyle can enhance health and quality of life. Caregivers can help seniors to adapt and adopt positive changes in them. Here are a few ways in which seniors require change during aging.
- Changes in Sleep
Seniors should aim to sleep seven to eight hours per night. But with aging, body hormone levels fluctuate, and so does the circadian rhythm, which can throw off sleep cycles. Certain medications can also impact the ability to fall or stay asleep.
Setting a consistent sleep and wake times routine can help, along with limiting napping during the day. Reducing beverage consumption post-dinner can also be beneficial to prevent frequent bathroom wakeups at night. However, ensure the room is comfy, dark, and quiet to minimize disruptions.
- Changes in Nutritional Needs
Several factors can affect seniors’ diet and nutrition. As seniors age, their metabolism slows down. As a result, they require fewer calories per day to maintain a healthy weight combined with reduced Sodium intake. Focus on incorporating more fresh produce, lean meats, healthy fats, and foods higher in protein. Relish foods with herbs and spices instead of salt or butter.
If chewing or swallowing becomes an issue due to dental problems or other health conditions, alter your diet plans. It may mean softer foods requiring less effort to chew or are easier to swallow. Cook pasta and steam vegetables until it becomes more tender. Ensure seniors get enough vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to support their health.
- Changes in Mobility
Bone density can decrease with aging, and muscles lose strength. Arthritis can cause joints to become stiffer. All of this can impact how well seniors get around. Make necessary changes around the house such as clearing walkways, securing rugs and cords, using sturdy furniture, adding grab bars, and ensuring seniors are wearing shoes that fit well and have non-slip soles.
Engaging in regular exercise can also keep muscles strong and improve flexibility and balance. Encourage daily walks, participation in fitness classes at the gym or home, and cardio combined with weight-bearing exercises. Find activities they enjoy, like dancing, yoga, tennis, or swimming. Seniors should also make sure they are getting enough calcium and vitamin D to strengthen their bones.
- Adapting to Seniors’ Changing Needs
Caregivers should pay attention to signs about aging adults helping requirements. Perhaps they have been more unsteady on their feet, not eating well, or looking even more tired than usual. Maybe they have trouble doing some activities they enjoyed before. It is important to put the right resources and support in place.
An in-home caregiver can monitor seniors’ abilities and provide the appropriate level of support to enable them to be as independent as possible while still meeting their needs. They can notify loved ones of any concerns or changes impacting the seniors’ safety or quality of life. Together they can form a plan to facilitate aging in place and maintain a healthy, enjoyable lifestyle.
Contact Always Best Care (East Bay) at 925-210-0323 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about available senior care services. Our team can provide services aligned with your aging parent’s individual needs and goals to adjust support to their changing needs.
