Getting old is inevitable. It is the ultimate destination for all of us. As such, we should care and do everything possible to appreciate our elders. Sadly, technological changes have interfered with the ways of caring for our elderly. Cyberspace communication has erased the personal touch between the old and their caregivers, making them feel isolated.
Also, it has prevented many from inheriting the wisdom of the old folks. So how can we show love to our aged parents in the information age? To answer, this article outlines six ways in which you can show affection to your elders. Read through it.
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Keep Track Of Them
The world has now become a digital village. While distance can keep you away from your old parents, it may not bar you from monitoring their everyday activity. You can install cameras throughout the house and the compound and connect it to your handset. By doing so, you will observe their movements and actions as frequently as you wish.
Another way of keeping watch on them is by making frequent calls. If they are technology savvy, you can get that personal touch by video calling them. Nothing pleases the old more than the knowledge that someone in their line is monitoring their progress.
Enroll Them In A Workout Program
The benefits of exercise are undeniable. Countless studies have associated training with preventing diseases such as diabetes and heart attack. They have also linked activity to improved mental health and better sleep in aging persons. You can engage your seniors in workouts in many ways, cycling being one of them.
You may review these bikes for seniors to choose the ideal bike size and brand which would impress your elder. The best bike will work their glutes, abdominal muscles, lower back, hip-flexor muscles, and quads, among other body parts. Besides the bikes, you can also hire a personal trainer to watch their body workout progress. The right workouts will keep them fit for an extended period.
Involve Them In Decision Making
The elders are very witty. They own a wealth of diverse information that they have accumulated through various experiences in life. They can thus advise on various matters that no one else could provide a solution for. When you seek advice from them, they will feel appreciated, and you will increase their self-worth. You will also free them up to raise matters affecting their welfare. As a result, they will become less prone to psychological issues such as stress and depression that may result from isolation. A stress-free life can elongate their living.
Change The House Layout
Most elders are generally weak and may easily fall and get injured. It is, therefore, essential to make some alterations in the house to increase their safety. Evacuate any excess furniture from home, clear the messy corridors, and install air conditioners. If the floor has slippery tiles, cover it with thick carpet, and remove any loose wire connections.
Also, ensure that the toilet and the bathroom are fixed with non-skid mats and grab bars to prevent the elderly from falling. Don’t forget to install small kitchen cabinets. Though seemingly minor, these changes can prevent great trouble from happening in the house.
Offer Charitable Services At Senior Centers
Most seniors at the support centers are widows and widowers. Also, most of them have lost their relatives and have a feeling of loneliness. Volunteering to spend your time and resources with them is a way of reminding them that they are still relevant. Offering charitable services is also a way of giving back to society. Thus, you can give them a punch of life by constructing more comfortable buildings, providing them clothing, food, access to better medical services, and other social amenities within your reach.
Handle Them Politely
Actions speak more about your inner self. The elders are socially experienced and can tell your feelings for them by observing your actions towards them. You will touch their hearts if you listen to them without interrupting their speech, respond correctly, respect them, and show them other positive gestures. You can also compliment them for their achievements in life and tell them how you appreciate their presence.
It is now time to pull the trigger and reach out to either elderly family members or friends. They were faithful in caring for you. It is now your turn to give back. If you live in an urban area and can’t reach your elders, call them, and share your love. You can also visit the nearest center for seniors, and you will enjoy the pride of adding glamour to their aging years.
If you are interested in even more lifestyle-related articles and information from us here at Bit Rebels, then we have a lot to choose from.
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