If your elderly loved one is struggling to live at home comfortably and safely, in-home occupational therapy can help provide much needed relief and guidance. Discover a few of the many benefits below.
Reduce the Struggles of Everyday Activities
An occupational therapist can provide tools and training to help seniors age with dignity. Many seniors face difficulties in normal activities, such as walking or grooming. This can greatly impact their lives, making them feel frustrated and hopeless. An occupational therapist can:
- Teach strength and balancing exercises
- Recommend adaptive equipment
Reduces Risks of Falls
Pre-existing conditions and advanced aging in the eldery can make recovery from a fall difficult. It’s common to lose your balance as you age, especially if you develop severe health conditions like arthritis. Fall prevention is necessary. Therefore, it’s important to get help from an occupational therapist who can help your loved one reduce their risk of falling. An occupational therapists will:
- Evaluate their living area
- Provide a custom action plan
Dementia Care
An occupational therapist can provide support and relief to caregivers who are caring for their loved one. We can help your loved one continue to live safely at home by understanding their challenges and your concerns. A treatment plan will be created to include the following: .
- Evaluate their condition and listen to your concerns
- Work one-on-one with you and your loved one.
Reduce the Risk of Vision Loss
Vision loss is also common in older adults. When you’re young, dealing with vision loss is easy, as you only need to start wearing glasses to avoid the problem. However, when seniors suffer from vision loss or eye diseases, they struggle to complete daily tasks. Unable to do basic house chores and everyday chores can lead to severe health mental disorders like depression and anxiety. An occupational therapist can support your loved one by:
- Recommend tools for the visually impaired
- Recommend home modifications to ensure safety
Offer Support to Caregivers
The primary benefit of working with an occupational therapist is they provide support and training to caregivers. They help you understand what you can do to make your loved one’s life easier and peaceful. If you’re a primary caregiver, training may cover some of the following:
- Learn the least intrusive assistance measures
- Provide adaptive equipment training
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for support in creating a safe environment for your elderly loved one, you can contact EQC Occupational Therapy. We offer in-home occupation therapy to seniors in the Portland metro area.
