Posted: 29th January 2018
Winter can be a cold and dull place for many older people. Even we can find it hard to make and stick to new resolutions, even though we know we’d be better off! Many of the families we support tell us they struggle to tell their parents what they think is best for them. Mum and dad would just rather stay home (and usually let the family run ragged around them!). If you have found yourself in this position, it’s easy to feel disheartened and to feel like giving into them.
Now, new research from Kings College London has confirmed what Orchard House has been saying from day one: day centres deliver valued outcomes, such as promoting wellbeing and supporting older people to retain their independence.
Two of the main reasons for older people’s decline are depression and dementia.
Depression or low mood can set in when older people start feeling lonely, which can often follow on from the loss of a loved one. Loneliness can also be caused by deteriorating physical abilities, making it harder for them to get out and about. Likewise, dementia can also lead to social isolation as a person’s social networks and abilities diminish.
PAY ATTENTION!
It often takes a crisis to spearhead the tricky conversation of mum or dad needing more help (or of you needing a break). Because they’re afraid they’ll be pulled away from their home comforts and marched to the nearest nursing home, older people are often afraid to admit they are lonely, or that they are not coping.
5 Signs that may mean mum or dad are struggling:
Any of the above pointers can indicate that something is wrong, and that as a carer for your mum or dad, your workload is increasing!
At Orchard House, we understand the difficulties carers face, and we help by listening to your needs. Our friendly team is experienced at coaxing even the most reluctant mums and dads to give our support a try.