While different people have different preferences, there are a number of factors that affect a person’s quality of life as they get older whether they live at home, with younger relatives, or in a care facility.
Perhaps the most important factor that improves a person’s quality of life is the ability to live free of pain or other medical issues. Chronic medical conditions should be taken seriously and be professionally examined. Even symptoms that seem minor on any given day can significantly lower a person’s happiness if experienced on a frequent basis. Additionally, if medical problems are reported sooner rather than later, there is a greater chance that those conditions can be treated or managed in a way to allow individuals to live a fuller life. If a person has a significant, age-related disability, individuals and families can look into care facilities that specialize in catering to individuals with specific disabilities. Such facilities can help foster a sense of social community by providing activities and accommodations geared toward individuals with specific conditions.
Another important quality of life factor is a maintaining a healthy social life. Individuals should seek out social activities that they can participate in. Friendships and regular social engagements can help a person’s emotional well-being and prevent feelings of isolation and loneliness. Family members should seek to include their older relatives in regular activities. Even a weekly meal or regular phone calls can give older individuals something to look forward to. Younger relatives should also keep in mind that just because a relative is older, that does not mean they no longer have romantic feelings. If a person is unable to maintain a healthy social life either at their home and/or with nearby relatives, then the person should look into the many types of senior communities and facilities that exist. There are many types of communities and facilities that cater to still active, otherwise healthy individuals of various interests.
A third factor that can improve a person’s quality of life is keeping a sense of accomplishment in their life. Activities can range from completing a daily crossword puzzle to discovering a whole new hobby. Physically able individuals could consider volunteer work. If an elderly individual is living with younger relatives, their family could find household activities that their elderly relatives can perform in order to maintain a sense of purpose in their life.
In order to discuss options that can enable you, or your family members, to achieve a higher quality of life, please call Martha C. Brown & Associates at (314) 962-0186.
