The most important lesson I ever learned was that Duct tape, paper clips, and rocks can literally solve the world’s problems…Well if you are MacGyver they can always!

Although it’s a little “tongue in cheek” there is a lot to be said for improvising everyday item to solve problems. Have you ever broken your thumb and been forced to find new ways to button your shirt or write your name? Luckily our injuries usually don’t last too long, but as we age we begin to permanently loose abilities we once had. The aging process means that we don’t bend the way we used to and that stiffness, fatigue, and pain make everyday activities not only challenging but sometimes impossible.

Have you noticed that your aging parent is no longer interested in something they used to love? Are they becoming irritable or confrontational when you approach them about a lack of hygiene or not completing routine tasks? The reason could simply be that they find it too difficult and are no longer capable of doing what they once did. This realization that they are losing their independence can be very upsetting.

At in-home caregiver can help with many of these tasks, and it may be time to start having the conversation with your elderly family member about getting them some help. To supplement this conversation though you should also seek your inner MacGyver (and Google.)

You already know about the benefits of grab bars and toilet seats with handles, but a quick Pinterest search will introduce you to genius ideas to help adapt daily tasks to the ability level of your aging parent. Attaching broomstick handles to pet food bowls allows them to pick up the bowl without bending over. Adding pieces of foam roller to silverware offers a better grip and larger surface area to help with unsteady hands. Swivel seats for cars, magnetic buttons for clothing, large rubber covers over doorknobs, larger knobs to cover over lamps or stove knobs, and even devices to easily tip out large jugs of juice are just the tip of the iceberg. Not every adaptation has to be expensive, and if you can identify what they are struggling with then perhaps a simple solution will help them gain some independence again, and their peace of mind.

Being sensitive to their struggles of aging and not being able to do what they once did with ease os perhaps one of the greatest challenges. A professional caregiver can provide not only the help that your loved one need but also the training and background to help handle the day to day issues associated with elderly care.

The caretakers with Nutmeg Home Assistance are dedicated to helping create solutions that help your loved one be contend and comfortable in their own home.