7 Essential Elderly Care Tips for Geriatric Patients
A whole-person care is needed for individuals with geriatric conditions. From medicine and illness management to regular health checks and mental health support, geriatric care also involves emotional support through counselling and caregivers who can help lighten the load on families.
If you have a geriatric individual at home and are wondering how to take care of them, then follow this guide because the essential tips are waiting for you.
Who Are Geriatric Patients?
The term “geriatric” comes from Greek words meaning “old age” and “healer”. Geriatric patients are individuals, often over 65, who require specialised medical care due to age-related changes and complex health issues, such as chronic illnesses and physical or cognitive decline. Here is what you must know:
- While 65 is a common benchmark (often for Medicare eligibility), the specific age can vary. Some specialised programs begin at 55, while others focus on patients over 75.
- Geriatric patients frequently have multiple chronic conditions and may experience a decline in physical function, memory, or balance.
- Age-related changes can affect a person’s ability to perform daily activities, requiring assistance with things like mobility, self-care, and managing their health.
- Geriatric care often involves ensuring that multiple medications are taken safely without dangerous interactions, which is especially important because of how age affects the body’s ability to process drugs.
Now, the essential tips to look forward to while taking care of geriatric individuals.
7 Essential Elderly Care Tips: Take Care of Geriatric Patients
| What You Can Do | Explained |
| In-Home Care | Home setting is more comfortable for elderly individuals. A clinic or other place may develop a sense of separation, so it is necessary to look for a healthcare team who are comfortable with home setting care. Check out services like GP for elderly patients, nursing care, elder care companions and ICU setup at home. Embrace open communication with healthcare providers, ask questions and seek required assistance to offer exceptional in-home care. |
| Ensure Proper Medicine Management | Taking the right medication on time is essential to ensure the overall well-being of elderly individuals. So, whether your elder family member is suffering from a chronic illness or major injury, never skip medicines. Get a detailed schedule of the medicines the geriatric patient needs to take and adhere to it by all means. |
| Socialisation | Age-related loneliness can be a major cause of depression. Incorporate socialisation into their daily routine. Having someone to talk to is always good because they can express themselves more confidently and speak from their heart. Having a social circle of loved ones offer a great human experience and benefits the ender’s mental health. It releases endorphins, enhances mood and helps combat depression. (Endorphins are natural painkillers produced in the brain that block pain signals and promote a sense of well-being.) |
| Make the Most of Modern Technology | Modern technology has enhanced the way healthcare professionals and patients can interact. Make the best use of this technology. It can help streamline the recovery of elderly people by enabling constant health monitoring, facilitating remote rehabilitation, enhancing safety, and improving medication management. These solutions allow older adults to recover with greater independence and security in their homes, reducing the need for costly hospital readmissions. |
| Mindful Communication | Learn and practice mindful communication with the elders. Use online resources and tools to discuss the treatment options available. Discuss the treatment they would like to go with and discuss with healthcare professionals. |
| Give Rest and Movement Equal Importance | Elders or adults above 65 years of age must have 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Therefore, if your elder family member experiences difficulty sleeping, consult a healthcare professional. |
| Offer a Well-Balanced Diet | Always provide senior people with a balanced diet to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and diabetes. If you need guidance on the diet, ask your GP; they can refer you to a trustworthy dietitian. |
FAQs: Elderly People and Care at Home
Q1. What needs to be excluded from the geriatric patients’ diet?
Food high in sodium, sugar and unhealthy fats. Substances like excessive alcohol and caffeine. There are food suggestions based on the individual’s age and health condition, so prefer asking a GP.
Q2. How to take care of geriatric patients at home?
Focus on creating a safe environment, ensuring proper nutrition and medication management, and providing social and emotional support through communication and activities.
Q3. When to consult a GP for elderly people?
Health issues that cause functional decline, such as confusion, falls, or memory issues. At a certain age, above 55 or 65, it is recommended to visit at least once a year.
Final Thoughts
At CSMC, you can get guidance on elderly individuals’ health management. Consult with the GP once a year for better health management and at-home care. If the professionals find anything concerning, they may recommend a visit often. With expert guidance and support, your elderly people will live comfortably.
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