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My elderly relative's health is declining: what should I do?

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When the health of an elderly loved one begins to decline, it's natural to feel worried and unsure of where to start. Whether it's a parent, grandparent, or dear friend, taking appropriate steps to ensure their well-being is essential. How to handle this delicate situation?

The first step is to assess the situation objectively. Observe signs of health decline, whether physical, mental, or emotional. Symptoms may include memory loss, difficulty moving around, loss of appetite, changes in behavior, or signs of depression. Take note of these changes as having an overview will help you devise a suitable action plan.

Medical Consultation

Schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor, for a comprehensive assessment of your loved one's health. A healthcare professional can identify underlying causes of their decline and propose a treatment plan. The healthcare network offers support services for seniors, and your local CLSC can provide valuable advice and referrals.

Telemedicine is a valuable option, especially for seniors in remote areas, allowing medical consultations without the need for frequent travel, thereby reducing stress and associated risks. Also, ensure regular communication with healthcare professionals to stay informed about changes in their health status.

Adapting and Planning Home Care

If your loved one can remain at home, consider implementing home care services. This may include assistance with personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and support with daily activities. Many companies in Quebec offer home care services, and public programs exist to help finance these services.

Ensure your loved one's home is adapted to their needs. Consider:

  • Installing grab bars in the bathroom and ramps for stairs to prevent falls.
  • Ensuring adequate lighting in all rooms, especially hallways and stairs.
  • Using motion detectors to alert and reduce the risk of nighttime falls.
  • Rearranging furniture to facilitate mobility.

Promoting Autonomy

  • Encouraging your loved one to maintain a level of independence can have a positive impact on their morale and overall health.
  • Adapt activities to their physical and cognitive abilities and consider assistive technologies such as phones with large buttons, simplified tablets, and state-of-the-art hearing aids.

Emotional and Social Support

Mental and emotional health are as important as physical health. Ensure your loved one does not feel isolated. Encourage visits from family and friends, phone calls, and explore social activities offered by local community centers. Support groups for caregivers and seniors can also be very beneficial.

There are numerous resources to assist seniors and their families. Utilize local, community, and provincial resources such as CLSCs, AQRP (Quebec Association of Retirees of Public and Parapublic Sectors), and FADOQ (Federation of Quebec Seniors' Clubs).

Legal and Financial Considerations

Legal and financial decisions may be necessary to ensure your loved one's well-being. Planning ahead and considering long-term steps, such as managing finances, drafting a protection mandate, or making end-of-life care decisions, are crucial. Consult with a lawyer specializing in elder law to ensure all steps are taken correctly and gather legal documents such as mandates in case of incapacity and medical directives.

Care Facility Placement

If home care is no longer sufficient, considering a care facility for seniors may be necessary. Retirement homes and long-term care facilities offer varying levels of care based on your loved one's needs. Visit facilities to find one that best suits their needs and ensures a safe and caring environment.

Caring for Yourself as a Caregiver

To effectively care for your loved one, it's crucial to take care of yourself. Maintain open communication with your support network, join caregiver support groups—whether in-person or online—and use respite services to take breaks when needed. Prioritize your own health through balanced nutrition and exercise.

Preparing for Changing Circumstances

Your loved one's situation can change rapidly. Be prepared to adjust your plans and seek new solutions as necessary. Flexibility and foresight are your best allies.

Caring for an elderly loved one whose health is declining is a significant challenge, but by using these tips and leveraging available resources in Quebec, you can better manage the situation.

Taking care of an elderly person whose health is declining is a challenge, but with these tips and resources from Quebec, you can manage better. To ensure their safety and well-being, consider retirement homes (RPA). They provide a secure environment, tailored care, and an active social life. To find the ideal residence, contact us at +1 844-918-1020. We are here to help you free of charge.

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