It’s important for seniors to feel good about themselves and feel a sense of purpose. But many seniors struggle to feel good about themselves as they get older. If your senior parent is living alone and doing things like getting dressed or bathing is becoming difficult for them, they may be struggling to feel good about themselves.
It’s a hard thing to admit needing help with basic tasks like brushing teeth or getting dressed. Your senior parent may not like talking to you about their struggle, even though they need help. If you notice that your senior parent is wearing the same clothes for days at a time, or wearing dirty clothes, or not brushing their hair or teeth, they may need personal care at home.
Personal care at home is specialty care for seniors living alone. The care providers who work in personal care at home services have training and experience helping seniors with sensitive hygiene tasks to help them feel good about themselves again.
In addition to getting personal care at home for your senior parent, you can help them feel their best each day by doing things like:
Call or Text Them Every Day
Even a quick call or text can brighten their day. It shows them you’re thinking about them and that they still matter to you. You don’t have to have a deep conversation every time. Just a “Good morning! How are you feeling today?” or “Thinking about you!” can go a long way.
Regular contact reminds them they’re important and loved.
Ask for Their Advice
One of the best ways to boost someone’s confidence is to ask for their advice. Seniors have so much life experience, but sometimes they don’t get to share it.
Asking something like, “How would you handle this situation?” or “What’s your best tip for dealing with stress?” can make them feel valued. It shows you respect their knowledge and still rely on their wisdom.
Praise Their Strengths
Everyone likes to hear that they’re doing something right. Compliment your parent on things they’re good at or proud of. Maybe they’re great at gardening, cooking, managing money, or just staying positive. Say it out loud: “Your garden looks amazing this year!” or “I really admire how you stay so organized.”
Genuine compliments can lift their spirit and remind them they’re still rocking it.
Help Them Stay Involved in Things They Love
Hobbies and interests give people a sense of purpose. Encourage your parent to keep doing the things they enjoy, whether it’s painting, playing cards, going for walks, or volunteering. If they can’t do some activities alone, see if you can join them sometimes or help set them up with a group.
Being active and connected helps seniors feel useful, alive, and proud of themselves.
Remind Them of Happy Memories
Talking about good memories is powerful. It reminds your parent of all they’ve done and all the good times they’ve had. Bring up stories from your childhood, family vacations, or funny moments you shared. You could even make a photo album together or watch old videos.
Happy memories boost self-esteem and help them feel like their life has been full and meaningful.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Personal Care at Home in San Francisco, CA, please contact the caring staff at Aviva In-Home Care today at (415) 463-1400
Aviva In-Home Care provides exceptional senior home care in the Bay Area, including San Francisco, Burlingame, San Mateo, Hillsborough, Atherton, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Berkeley, Lafayette, Orinda, and surrounding areas.
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