Have you ever been ill or injured for any amount of time? If, so, then you probably recognize the feeling of frustration when you have to rely on other people for an extended amount of time. You can become short-tempered and argumentative because you are feeling frustrated with your own limitation, Those who love you certainly do not see you as a burden, and they are happy to care for you, but sometimes it’s impossible to let go of the negative feelings.

Imagine how your elderly loved ones may feel, knowing that they have to rely on caretakers to provide for them on a daily basis, Instead of trying to convince them constantly that they aren’t a burden, what about taking a new approach?

Find something that your loved one enjoys doing, and is able to do on their own. Perhaps knitting, or playing chess or cards, Set aside a specific day and time each week for about an hour or so, and in that time let your loved one be completely in charge. Ask them if you could make tea or a snack ahead of time, and find out what they will need so that you can have it all set up and ready for your “date”. Then, for the next hour or so, just enjoy each other’s company. Make sure that medications and any necessary daily items are done before hand so that you can truly just sit and enjoy the time together. Make sure not to hover or “nag”, and let them lead the conversation. Ask them to share their stories and listen intently. Allow them the opportunity to do what they can, without jumping to help them. By removing the labels of “caregivers” and “patient” for a little while, your love one will find a sense of independence and pride that will help with their overall satisfaction and comfort with the situation, Setting aside a specific amount of time will allow you to relax and focus just on them, without rushing through tasks to get to the next thing.

It’s easy to fall into the routine of looking at care as if it’s a chore, but that attitude can cause significant damage to people, Remember that your love and value your senior citizen, and don’t let their struggles with aging affect the love and respect you have for each other, They need your help, and their independence, but mostly importantly, the need your love and support.