Many elderly people struggle with a variety of issues as they age. These can include both physical and mental health issues. In particular, many individuals may struggle with memory or cognition. Some may even develop Alzheimer’s disease, which is a progressive and severe form of dementia that can cause major impairments.
Fortunately, there are ways to help these individuals enjoy an increased quality of life. One such option is to place them in a supportive residential community. Furthermore, even the right encouraging words can make a major difference, which is why the best communities promote this type of language.
Surround The Elderly With Positive People
When older people are struggling, the best thing to do is surround them with support. In particular, some individuals may benefit from living in a memory care community dedicated to their health and wellbeing. These communities can be helpful for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive impairments. While each community is different, most focus on providing general care and socialization.
The nice thing about these communities is that residents will be surrounded by positive people. Caregivers and staff will celebrate the good things in each resident’s life and praise them when they do well. This can make a major difference in terms of the person’s outlook and sense of self-worth. Even better, friends and loved ones can observe and learn how to positively interact with and uplift the elderly people in their lives.
Work Together To Set Reasonable, Reachable Goals
Setting goals can be beneficial for people of all ages. However, goal setting can be particularly valuable for seniors, especially when you add uplifting words into the mix. In a senior living community, caregivers will often work with residents to set goals that are based on the person’s level of cognition and general ability. A goal could be something as simple as going for a walk or something more difficult, such as completing a physical therapy session.
Thankfully, with the right environment, individuals will be encouraged as they progress toward their goals. When they achieve a goal, they’ll be praised. If a goal isn’t reached, they’ll be encouraged to set a new goal and congratulated for trying. Family members can also learn to adopt these techniques.
Encourage Talking, Sharing, And Remembering
It is very common for people with memory problems to experience fewer problems with their long-term memory than with short-term memory. However, talking and communicating are healthy for them and their family members. That’s why a qualified community that offers assisted living in Fresno, CA is such a great place to be. The staff there can prompt individuals to talk about what they feel comfortable with, understand, and actually do remember. This can help the elderly person feel more heard and valued, which can work to improve self-confidence and self-esteem.
Remember, Elderly People Are Still People
Unfortunately, some older people, especially those with memory problems, get treated like children or like they’re completely incompetent. Thankfully, a quality residential environment does not promote this type of treatment. Instead, it reinforces to its staff that elderly people, no matter their challenges, are still people. The workers get to know each resident individually and thus can talk to them like the valued individuals that they are. After all, they deserve nothing less.
Engage The Elderly In Positive Socialization
Social isolation is not healthy for anyone, particularly senior citizens. For this reason, a quality residential environment will provide plenty of opportunities for enjoyable socialization. In the right setting, elderly people will socialize with their peers, their caregivers, and other outside visitors, such as those who provide special programs, activities, or entertainment. In each and every situation, good environments don’t tolerate negativity. Instead, they focus on helping everyone focus on their strengths and learning and benefiting from one another.
Keep Things Light And Fun
Getting older isn’t easy, especially for those with memory impairments. The right residential community will understand this fact and will work to make life enjoyable for every resident. The best provide educational activities, opportunities for enrichment, and a variety of amenities. They aim to make life fun for people in their golden years and to make them feel good about themselves at all times.
When it comes to finding an excellent memory care home for your loved one, Summerfield of Fresno is a wonderful choice. We create a real home environment for every resident and offer around-the-clock care. We also believe in using intentional, helpful, and supportive language at all times.