Most people begin to perform daily life tasks independently by age 20. Later in life, or by age 70, they may find that they cannot perform those tasks or fulfill their care needs. This loss of independence may create many emotional, physical, and psychological problems in a person. Individuals can quickly become depressed at this point. Caregivers can provide immense support while helping seniors understand the process.
According to a 2012 study conducted by AARP, 57% of seniors over the age of 70 find it difficult to live alone as they need help with daily tasks. With this loss of independence, many seniors may exhibit emotions such as denial, bad mood, guilt, anxiety, sadness, and frustration.
Below are some types of independence seniors may lose according to their health or cognitive condition.
- Ability to take care of oneself
- Ability to perform daily tasks or chores
- Mobility
- Memory
- Hearing
- Vision or Sight
- Social Activities
- Decision Making Skills
- Driving
Helping seniors cope with loss of independence
As time goes by, seniors may feel an increasing need for a caregiver who could help them perform basic care tasks such as bathing, cooking, or driving. Due to the loss of independence, seniors may feel irritable, anxious, afraid, or sad. There are strategies that caregivers can use to help seniors accept and cope with the loss of independence.
1. Caregivers must adhere to a standard of dignity. While seniors may lose their independence, this doesn’t mean that they should let go of their dignity as well. Caregivers should always guard seniors’ privacy.
2. Honesty and trust are essential qualities in a caregiver. With time, caregivers can help build trust with seniors by showing their support and compassion.
3. Caregivers maintaining a consistent routine will benefit seniors as they won’t have to be anxious about when and how care will be provided. Seniors may even look forward to specific events in the routine.
4. Even if seniors are not able to provide basic care needs for themselves, caregivers should ask for their input, whether it’s related to food or the color of clothes. The caregiver has a supportive role, not a leading role. By asking seniors about their preferences, it gives seniors a chance to be involved in the decision-making process.
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