According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, approximately 310,000 Canadians live in health care and related institutions. This excludes Quebec. Of these individuals, about 143,000 live in nursing homes where more than 90 percent of residents are over the age of 65. As well, there are twice as many women as there are men living in these facilities.
With the coronavirus pandemic significantly impacting nursing homes, this year, many Canadians are opting to keep their elderly parents at home. But what steps are necessary in order to help older adults age in place comfortably?
Maintain an organized living space.
Safety will always be paramount. In order to have your aging parent comfortably live at home, he/she must be living in a safe environment. That entails having a very neat and tidy home. An especially important element of a clean home is a lack of tripping hazards. Unencumbered walking areas are a must. Remove any and all obstacles from the floors and staircases. Tuck away wires and remove throw rugs which tend to bunch up. This will work wonders in preventing trips and falls.
“An organized space helps you move freely,” agrees AgingInPlace.org, “You are also able to carry out tasks done as easily as possible. It is general knowledge that, as people age, their strength diminishes as well. This is a point that can be turned into a positive for seniors.”
Prepare nutritious meals.
It goes without saying that healthy eating is a key to maintaining optimum health. It’s imperative that the older adult in your home is eating well. Comfortable aging in place entails enjoying a good balanced diet. The National Institute On Aging also points out that it’s important to arrange company for meals if your elderly loved one is often alone.
“Find out if meals are served at a nearby senior center or house of worship,” suggests their website, “Eating out may give you a chance to visit with others. Is it hard for you to get out? Ask someone to bring you a healthy meal a few times a week. Meal delivery programs bring hot meals into your home; some of these programs are free or low-cost.”
Create a welcoming environment for visitors.
Although COVID-19 continues to be a problem, you want to address any feelings of loneliness and isolation your elderly parent may be experiencing. Are there trustworthy family members and friends you consider part of your current social bubble? If so, ensure that your residence is one they’ll be happy to visit. The joy this can bring your mom and/or dad will surely pay dividends. One’s mental and emotional health must always be considered.
AgingInPlace.org points out that visitors make older adults feel confident in their homes. They help to eliminate boredom and can even help with household chores. “Ultimately, they help you keep up with the most important and interesting happenings around the world,” says the website, “And…they make you laugh.”
At LifeCare Mobility Solutions, we’d love to help the older adult in your home age in place comfortably. Learn all about our mobility solutions by calling us at 416-267-9800 or emailing us at info@lifecaremobility.ca. You may also contact us by filling out the form on our Contact page.
