Choosing The Right Senior Bridge Program For Your Loved One

By Maria Kelly


One of the best things senior citizens can do for their loved ones is to express their last of life wishes and instructions before something happens that makes it difficult for them to communicate in a reliable way. Most older people, who have lived in one place for a number of years, wish to remain there as long as possible. Not all individuals are able to do this for a variety of reasons. For those who have the means, a senior bridge program can help give their loved peace of mind.

It is not unusual for older people to relinquish certain household responsibilities as they age. Some housekeeping chores can become difficult to perform, and seniors may not have the stamina to continue keeping their yards and gardens in tip top shape. Loved ones often hire someone to come in occasionally to do this kind of work for their older relative. It is more important to find a reliable, honest worker than to hire someone with specialized skills.

One of the biggest problems facing older citizens, especially if they have mobility issues or live in urban areas, is isolation. They may not see or talk to anyone for days at a time, which can lead to depression. Companion services help alleviate the problem. A caring and compassionate individual will come to the elder's home as often as needed to spend quality time with them. These people are sometimes enlisted to help with groceries, appointments, and medications.

There are care managers for elders who need more than companionship. They may need help making sure bills are paid on time, filling out any necessary insurance or government agency paperwork, or keeping prescriptions up to date and filled. Since the managers are in close contact with the aging adult, they can give loved ones first hand accounts of the state of the individual's physical health and mind. They can alert relatives if they see unusual or disturbing patterns of behavior.

At some point, some seniors need more aggressive care. They may require someone to be with them around the clock. In this instance family members can contact professionals to get recommendations about skilled caregivers who can give assistance when it comes to personal hygiene and therapy routines. They may also be required to prepare meals, meet any dietary requirements, keep house, and provide companionship.

There are private nurses who will come into your loved one's home when he or she needs skilled care. These professionals can administer injections, change bandaging, manage tube feedings, and adjust oxygen, ventilators, and tracheostomy tubes. Seniors with diabetes often have special requirements that they are not able to accomplish on their own.

It is a good idea to work with an agency that has the flexibility to increase the level of care necessary to keep loved ones comfortable and safe in their environment. It is difficult for many older individuals to have frequently changing caregivers and schedules.

The older people get, the more they appreciate familiar surroundings. Living at home in old age should not be a luxury, but a right.




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