How do you know if an adult has depression? How do you deal with irritability? How do you give them quality time? There's certainly a lot to know when caring for someone.
No one knows the needs of an older adult better than their caregivers. They are an invaluable source of information.
Below, we show you 41 facts revealed and endorsed by real caregivers, who have made their work a living document of invaluable records.
41 Secrets Revealed by Real Senior Caregivers
1. Has your adult lost interest in activities they used to enjoy? Red flag
It could be depression. Sometimes depression in older people stems from an unexplained sadness that harms the body as a whole, affecting mood and psyche.
As we age, we can go through many changes, such as health problems, dependency, the death of loved ones, or retirement . Want to learn about other symptoms of depression? Click here.
2. Over-caring could also harm the caregiver
Have you heard of Caregiver Burnout Syndrome ? It occurs after quickly losing your temper, which can be due to overexertion, lack of sleep, physical exhaustion, among other factors.
It's a syndrome of physical and emotional exhaustion that can affect those who care for others continuously and for long periods of time. Learn about its symptoms by clicking here .
3. What to do with bedsores?
A bedsore can occur due to pressure, but also due to friction or rubbing , leaving a lesion so deep that it affects muscles and bones. Spending too much time in bed or sitting can lead to the appearance of bedsores, which require special care.
To do this, you need to prioritize cleanliness, change the adult's position every two hours, adjust the elevation of the bed and chair, and use pillows and cushions to relieve pressure. But which one should you choose? Here are our suggestions .
4. Make friends with palliative care
Palliative care helps patients feel better in every way . It's provided by doctors, psychologists, and, of course, caregivers. Palliative care helps people with serious illnesses feel better by preventing or treating the symptoms and side effects of the illness and treatment.
Their goal is to make the patient feel better. To achieve this, they focus primarily on symptoms and side effects. Do you know who receives palliative care and in what cases? Come in .
5. What you should know if you plan to admit him to a residence
Entrusting a loved one to the care of another person or institution is a decision that should not be taken lightly. There are many variables that must be taken into account to make an informed, but above all, consensual decision .
Therefore, there are key questions throughout this process. The first three are the most important: Does your loved one want to? This is the most important thing to consider, as this is HIS or HER life. Can your loved one? This refers to the physical, intellectual, and social conditions necessary to be in such a place. And finally, does the family want to and can they? This is often a very difficult decision that is accompanied by all kinds of feelings: guilt, sadness, frustration, and helplessness, among others. What should you know about assisted living? Here are 10 key questions .
6. Did your adult fall? Here's what to do.
The first thing is to stay calm (because the adult will be scared and agitated), communicate (speak to them slowly and lovingly), assess the situation (check if there are any scrapes or swelling on their body), lift them up (identify which part of their body you can lean on so you can help each other) and call the doctor (for follow-up).
Falls are known to account for nearly 80% of accidents in nursing homes and 20% in assisted living facilities. We've already told you what to do during a fall, but what about afterward? Take note .
7. Assist your adult during feeding
Every caregiver knows the challenges of feeding a dependent patient, which go beyond providing a balanced diet . They may not want to eat or have difficulty eating properly. What should be done in these cases?
Your patient may need your help with eating. To assist them in this process, you need the utmost care . Nutrition is a key component of survival, and it's essential to complement it with a series of healthy habits. We've prepared the perfect decalogue to help you do it like a pro .
8. What level of dependency does your adult have?
Assisting a patient to a medical appointment is not the same as bathing, dressing, or helping them eat. The entire range of care required by this population has had to be classified to be better understood and provided to increasingly better caregivers and medical staff.
This relates to the so-called 'degrees of dependency.' It can range from moderate to severe and is not necessarily age-related , as it arises as a consequence of the loss of autonomy, whether physical, intellectual, sensory, or a combination of these. We'll tell you what tests exist to determine the degree of dependency .
9. If your adult is blind and/or deaf, write down
One in three people aged 65 to 74 has some level of hearing loss, while nearly 36 million people are blind. What can you do? Rely on the four A's:
- Accept it (recognize your new life condition, perhaps with the help of psychotherapy),
- Anticipate (approach a health professional, who will know how to guide you through the process),
- Adapt (spaces can be adapted and some furniture that may be in the patient's way can be moved)
- Loving yourself (losing the optimal function of a vital sense is difficult to assimilate, so something fundamental is to validate the patient's emotions) In daily life there are many new habits to implement and here we tell you which ones .
10. When the patient becomes aggressive
Some of these symptoms may include making threats, accusing others (for example, of stealing), swearing, kicking, hitting, or biting people close to you, offending loved ones, yelling or grabbing things, being unable to control emotions or feeling disrespected, showing apathy toward activities that were previously enjoyed, losing certain inhibitions, and being unconcerned about the feelings of others.
To cope with the situation, it's vital to avoid getting caught up in it , avoid blaming, avoid arguments, stop yelling, stay calm, identify triggers, take a timeout, and redirect your attention. However, that doesn't mean you should tolerate certain behaviors. Which ones? Click here .
11. Nothing like stimulating your memories
The best therapy, without a doubt, is to connect the elderly with the most precious moments of their lives : marriage, first pregnancy, childhood experiences, or historic moments that make them proud. Connecting with their surroundings is a foundation for the survival of the heart and thus feeling loved.
Learning to listen to what he feels, understand it, and pay attention to his sadness will give him hope and motivation to live an old age filled with love and understanding for his loved ones. What other ways can you help him? Click here .
12. Being realistic will be your ground wire
In many cases, an older adult's condition will be degenerative and progressive, meaning their condition won't improve, even with the best care. Regardless, we will do everything possible to ensure they are in the best possible condition until their final day. Therefore, try to give them plenty of love and understanding, as well as care and dignity, during their lifetime.
It's not about being pessimistic, but rather the opposite: about embracing the present with optimism and giving your loved one quality time and well-being. Discover why not being realistic could have the worst effects on you .
13. Choose a cool and comfortable mattress
Look for one that has different foams placed in key areas of the body and for specific purposes. Some feature gel-infused memory foam for a cool night's sleep.
And in the lower area, they cushion the weight and provide soft support for the feet. Choose one with a washable cover to make cleaning the patient easier and faster. Want our recommendation? Here it is .
14. Do you know what a transfer belt is?
If the adult has limited mobility or is in a wheelchair, you can help them move with this device. It's a belt placed on the patient, equipped with handles and materials that allow the caregiver to move them more easily. This way, we avoid having to exert extra force or strain your back. It's very practical for preventing falls when we help move the patient. In what cases can it help? Look .
15. Swallowing problems? Two basic rules
- PREFER: Thick juices, butter, cottage cheese, ice cream, custards, omelets, breads, toast, cooked cereals, breads or crackers without nuts or raisins, pasta for soup, soft boiled or mashed vegetables, soft fruits without seeds or skin, ripe bananas, meatballs, minced meat with sauces, meat sauce and soft, boneless fish.
- AVOID: Lumps and bones, thin juices, milk, coffee, herbal teas, thin eggs, crackers, dry rice or cereal, toast, soft white bread, raw fruits and vegetables, chips, dried or chopped meats, dry cookies, desserts with raisins, nuts, pumpkin seeds, or coconut, hard candy, and chocolate. But if your adult just flat-out refuses food, then come in here .
16. Avoid an accident at home
As in any home, the space where an older adult lives contains furniture and objects that may have been with them for years. What was once a decorative object can now be a latent risk .
That is, if a hallway isn't sufficiently clear, there's a risk of a person tripping over an object , or if the compartments in a kitchen cabinet aren't fully lit, an adult could hit their head and fall. The same would happen if areas like the patio, bathroom, or stairs aren't lit. Discover other risk factors .
17. Let's spend quality time with our adult
We know it's not just about meeting their basic needs, but also about making time each day to share and listen to an adult, even if it's just for a few minutes. Nothing compares to a small talk, no matter how trivial, a caress, a smile, or a kind gesture.
Doing so has many benefits: You won't feel alone, but safe and protected; you'll feel loved and appreciated by those around you; you'll have no fears or insecurities; your self-esteem will increase; you'll be able to contribute to decision-making; and you'll enjoy better emotional health. How can you achieve this? Here are 10 tips .
18. Do you need help with the family member you care for?
The first step is to recognize that you can't do it alone and that others must also commit to caring. Just as you've been together in good times, it's also essential to be united in times of crisis.
So, talk honestly about your health and explain how this situation is impacting you physically and mentally. You can make a list and share it with your family members, so they can decide which tasks they could help with. It can be very helpful to let go of past grudges or call a truce, so you can work as a team for the best interest of your patient. How can you achieve this? Click here .
19. Choose the best footwear for your adult
Well-chosen footwear allows adults to be more independent, avoiding pain, discomfort, and preventing foot injuries. At the same time, it helps prevent accidents and provides good foot support.
Consider cushioning and flexibility. If your adult has limited mobility, consult an expert. Check the condition of their nails and feet, the stitching and grip, and the size of their feet. This is why special footwear that adapts to this situation is required. Did you know there are ergonomic slippers? We recommend them .
20. It is false that they no longer need to maintain their personal image.
Hence, it's essential to take care of your self-esteem . Getting out of bed, taking a bath, getting dressed, and grooming yourself will help you feel comfortable in your own skin. That's why you should also dedicate time to your surroundings.
Therefore, surrounding yourself with family and friends full of positive experiences and comments is undoubtedly vital to avoiding depression in older adults. Having conversations that protect a person's mood keeps their body safe from possible depression. Learn more ways to pamper your older adult by clicking here .
21. Ask the adult's family for help
It's important to know our limits , respect our physical and mental integrity, and know when to ask for help. The idea is to be able to begin delegating some obligations and lighten a heavy load.
We can talk to other family members, explain that the situation is overwhelming us, and find a solution together , such as professional home care or residential care. Here's why it's important to make these decisions .
22. Heels, ankles and the skin behind the knees are not exempt from bedsores.
While bedsores are known to occur in areas such as the tailbone, hips, and back , they are not the only ones. They can also occur on the heels, ankles, and the skin behind the knees.
Certain situations increase the likelihood of developing bedsores. These include diseases that affect blood flow (diabetes and vascular diseases), incontinence (due to prolonged exposure to urine and feces), immobility, poor nutrition and hydration, and loss of sensory perception. These devices can help prevent bedsores in these areas .
23. Be a multifaceted caregiver
Did you know you could help your patient in all areas? These include emotional (fear, anxiety, depression), spiritual (hopelessness, support), physical (pain, sleep problems, loss of appetite), social (companionship, recreation, leisure), and practical (money, legal framework, paperwork).
Caregivers are often skilled in all of these areas and provide key support when it comes to procedures. Would you like to know how to achieve this? Click here .
24. See beyond your suffering
If the illness has been very severe and required prolonged rest, the patient may feel and look weakened. Providing comfort, convenience, and dignity are three elements that can make this situation more bearable.
To achieve this, in addition to comfort and affection, you can provide accessories such as pillows and cushions for better rest, supplies for daily hygiene , and personal care items to protect your baby's skin from infections if he or she suffers from incontinence or is in a state of bed rest. Here are more recommendations .
25. Is the environment safe for your adult?
Although falls are considered accidents, a number of adjustments can be made at home to prevent them as much as possible. For example, by lighting rooms, clearing spaces, installing non-slip floors, installing handrails where necessary, and even reviewing the type of clothing and footwear the person wears.
There are some elements that would make your stay safer. Here are a few .
26. Ask for their advice
Your adult can give you something no one else can: their experience. Sharing situations from our everyday lives, no matter how small or inconsequential they may seem, and seeking advice in conversation will make them feel useful and will get their mind working to help you.
Asking for advice or opinions on solving simple problems will help you appreciate the wisdom and experience of your elder. This will strengthen their self-esteem and make them feel valued and included in the family bond. Take note of other recommendations .
27. Lean on nurses
The way a nurse treats and connects with a patient can be crucial to an older adult's emotional health. The treatment should be cordial , kind, and personalized, and above all, the older adult should feel comfortable and confident with their caregiver.
Above all, the nurse must establish a bond with the adult and also create their own communication codes. In many cases, a friendship can develop between the two, which will be very beneficial for the elderly, as they will feel supported and listened to.
28. Is the nurse doing her job well?
To do this, check the appearance of the food served to your family member, whether your loved one looks properly groomed, whether they appear relaxed, and whether they are sufficiently prepared for an emergency situation, such as a fall. Here's what you should consider to find out .
29. Two good friends of your adult: pets and children
Petting a pet can be an excellent grounding ground for older adults or anyone undergoing treatment. There are even animal-assisted therapies that significantly improve people's physical, cognitive, emotional, and relational functions.
On the other hand, generational barriers are broken down when children and adults spend time together and have fun. It's an interesting exercise in empathy when we teach the little ones how to treat and help their elders. Discover more tips to give your adult life quality .
30. What if my adult refuses food?
It could be hyporexia (lack of appetite), a decreased desire to eat , and it could be because your body no longer needs to consume as many calories, as your physical needs are no longer as high. However, measures must be taken to prevent malnutrition.
Therefore, to the extent possible and without sacrificing their well-being, avoid certain foods they dislike or find difficult to swallow, monitor the patient's calorie intake and divide it into 5 or 6 small meals, and consult a healthcare professional to assess whether hyporexia is presenting as a symptom of another condition. Did you know it could be due to a physical or even mental issue? Look .
31. In cases of Alzheimer's, these medications can help
This type of illness could involve aspects related to depression, restlessness, anxiety, or aggressive behavior. In this regard, experts suggest antidepressants (for depression and anxiety), anxiolytics (which should be used with extreme caution, as they can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion), anticonvulsants (to treat severe aggression), antipsychotics (for cases of paranoia, hallucinations, and agitation), and anticholinergics (for sleep problems, stomach cramps, incontinence, and asthma). Who can you turn to in the event of an aggressive reaction? Here's what you need to know .
32. An accident could be caused by a medicine!
For example, dementia is known to double the risk of a fall in older adults. While it's true that certain ailments affect older adults more frequently than other groups, those that impair quality of life can lead to falls.
In this population, special attention must be paid to musculoskeletal (arthritis, osteoarthritis), cardiovascular (hypertension, heart failure, arrhythmia), and neuropsychiatric (dementia, Alzheimer's, depression) conditions. Here's what you should know about falls .
33. Take care of yourself to take care of others
In most cases, it is the closest relatives who take on the role of caregivers for their parents, children, or relatives who need constant assistance.
To achieve this, improve your rest, divide up tasks, encourage independence, make time for friends to lean on, and protect your health. For example, do you know how to take care of your back while caring for your adult? Look .
34. What to give to an elderly person?
Whether it's for Christmas, a birthday, or any other special day, it's much better to give something of quality. Some adults are more independent than others and will have different needs. The important thing is to know that there is a wide variety of products that will improve their quality of life and, at the same time, that of their caregivers.
A good gift could be, for example, giving your child quality sleep. For this, we recommend ergonomic pillows, which are cool and comfortable for any occasion, or why not a back cushion that can be used when reading or watching TV? Learn more about these products .
35. Value your effort
No one knows better than you the battles you've faced. But at the same time, only you know everything you've learned and achieved for the greater well-being of your adult self. This has been the result of your effort, your quality as a person, and, of course, your great capacity for love.
The challenge is great and involves different levels. You develop a strength you may not even have known you had, and you gain greater empathy in every sense. You're sure to identify with this story .
36. Hygiene in bed is essential
There's nothing more comforting than a warm bath. However, bedridden patients rarely enjoy actual contact with water, whether they're hospitalized or receiving care at home.
Feeling clean is a right for all patients, whether they're bedridden or not. Fortunately, there are products that help caregivers make this task easier. To achieve this, we recommend these products .
37. This is how you could stimulate your memory
Recalling events from the past, both distant and recent, and pinpointing specific details from those memories can help you not only relive important moments, but also exercise your memory.
It's very common for older adults to tell the same story over and over again, so the strategy is to shift the focus of these anecdotes by asking them about specific questions, for example, what season it was, what they were wearing at the time, or if they remember who else they were with that day.
Another option is to help an adult store photos, videos, or mementos. A little bit each day, they can organize, classify, and identify who's in the photos or what locations they belong to. It'll be a fun activity together, where they'll not only have fun looking at photos and identifying family members, but will also create a beautiful keepsake for posterity. Want more tips? Check out .
38. Check your adult's clothes
Older adults require special care not only for their health and home, but also for their clothing choices . Of older adults who fall, between 20 and 30% sustain moderate or severe injuries, such as bruises, hip fractures, or head trauma.
A fall can occur if a person doesn't have proper footwear (shoes, slippers, flip-flops), isn't wearing glasses, or if a gown or garment gets caught on a foreign object, causing a fall. Fortunately, this is something that can clearly be prevented. Take note of other risks .
39. How to avoid an argument?
Remember that every patient is different , and not all strategies may work the first time. Trials may be necessary to find what works for each individual.
For example, if the patient blames a specific person for stealing from them, instead of saying something like, "That's not true" or "You're just imagining it," it's better to respond with something like, "I'm glad you said so. I'll take care of it. " Want more examples? Sign in .
40. Does your adult require full assistance?
It would be considered a level III of dependency, known as "Great Dependency." This occurs when the dependent person needs the greatest possible assistance to perform most of the basic activities of daily living several times a day. By then, they may have already experienced a complete loss of mental or physical autonomy and require the complete presence of another person.
To address this, teamwork is required involving caregivers, family members, and medical staff. Those involved need to share tasks and take turns caring for the adult. The primary caregiver may be able to train others to cover for them so that responsibilities can be balanced. How dependent is your adult? Find out here .
41. My patient has difficulty or pain when swallowing
This is known as dysphagia and odynophagia , and it occurs when the process of getting liquids and food into the stomach requires more time and effort. This may be due to food being consumed too quickly or not chewed thoroughly enough.
To help, try to ensure the patient doesn't talk while eating to avoid choking, avoid mixing solid foods with liquids, adapt as much as possible to the patient's tastes, let the person eat alone (but with supervision), and even use glasses with cutouts or filters to regulate the amount of liquid introduced into the mouth. But it could be that this isn't necessarily due to problems related to painful swallowing. What should you do then? We'll tell you .
Caring is an act of love
Information adds value to what we do. With it, when it comes to protecting and safeguarding older adults, the work of caregivers can reach the next level.
The biggest beneficiaries, clearly, will be the older adult. But also their caregivers, who will find increasingly safer, more efficient , and (why not say it) simpler ways to perform their duties.
As we've seen throughout these 41 sections, there is information worth sharing among caregivers . Each of these secrets holds the wisdom that only experience can provide.
