High school and college graduations around the country were recently celebrated. One of the things that went unnoticed by many was the fact that not all graduates fit the traditional definition of the typical student. For example, in North Carolina, one senior care center saw 13 individuals graduate from college or adult education programs.
Some of these seniors went to classes in a brick and mortar setting while others took classes online. Regardless, obtaining further learning was a big goal for all of them, and just because they were older, they did not settle for giving up on their dreams. They went out and took the steps that they needed to. All with the help and encouragement of the employees of their care home.
It has been said on this blog before, and it’s definitely important enough that it should be said again: just because someone is older does not mean that they suddenly lose interest in the things that they once enjoyed. They do not stop having goals and dreams and wishes. That dream might be to continue their education, as in the example above. It might be something else. The best way to find out what these wishes are is to simply talk to your elderly parent or grandparent and to encourage them.
Staying active is an important part of senior health. It keeps their bodies moving, which helps prevent obesity and other age related issues. It also helps to keep the brain active, which helps to fight dementia, depression, and more. Senior care has long been geared toward meeting needs, but it’s important to look at all parts of a person, and not just their physical needs. Staying active is a big part of what makes us who we are.
Senior care is supposed to help older individuals live a better life. The basics must be met–and this is a large part of what care does. Help with managing medication, getting meals prepared, and getting around the house are a few of the things that are most often associated with care. But the best care is designed to help people dream bigger. The best caregivers are always helping the people that they work with to get the most out of life.
Your family deserves the best care that you can get. Your mom or dad might not have aspirations of going back to school, but they more than likely have something that they would like to accomplish. A great caregiver will do what they can to go above and beyond to help make this a reality. That doesn’t mean that all of the arrangements and work will be done for them, but rather that they will do their best to work toward what’s best for your loved one–both physically and emotionally.
If you’re located in the San Francisco Bay Area and you’d like to learn more about care that works for your family, give us a call or an email. We can schedule a free consultation and get you the information and assistance that you need to make an informed decision.
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