The elderly not only face physical obstacles as their bodies' age but they experience emotional challenges as well. Seniors are faced with stresses that may include living on a reduced retirement income or being unable to care for themselves independently. They may be facing the loss of a spouse, siblings or close friends. Caretakers need to know what to expect regarding the emotions of seniors and be prepared to help with them.
Step 1
Let them talk. Many seniors are often lonely. They may have become socially isolated in these later years. Ask the elderly person to tell you what she is feeling. The simple act of speaking it aloud can help people cope with this emotion.
Step 2
Anticipate when the senior will probably experience difficult emotions so you can be ready to help. For example, if you know the older person will likely not pass the vision test for his driver's license, be ready with a plan regarding how he will be helped with transportation.
Step 3
Help the elderly person in your life stay physically active. Physical exercise benefits the body as well as the mind. Suggest taking walks with her several times a week or ask if she wants to join a water fitness class.
Step 4
Ease a senior's mind in regard to his health by taking him to his physician regularly. You can also help him understand his insurance plan and check to make sure he is taking medications on schedule.
Step 5
Take your older loved one to a mental health professional if her emotional issues escalate or if she becomes very depressed. She may need anti-depressants or some form of therapy to better cope with her emotions.
Step 6
Consider providing your senior with a pet. Ask first to make sure he would like to own one and will be able to properly care for it. Pets are helpful with emotional needs for many people. If it is not feasible for the senior to have a pet full time you may want to arrange for visits from a friendly canine, guinea pig or rabbit.
Tips and Warnings
- Check out senior clubs in your area. Try to get your elderly loved involved in one of these programs so he will have social interaction with other older people.
