Sixteen Everyday Challenges Elderly Deal With

Those who have parents still living on their own may be interested in the following information. It is a list of the main problems confronting people over 55 years of age, according to a Gallup poll of 1,500 people in that category.

Below are the top 16 challenges the elderly can face on any given day.
1. Opening medicine packages
2. Reading product labels
3. Reaching high things
4. Fastening buttons, snaps and zippers
5. Vacuuming and dusting
6. Going up and down stairs
7. Cleaning bathtubs and sinks
8. Washing and waxing floors
9. Putting clothes over one’s head
10. Putting on socks, shoes, or stockings
11. Carrying purchases home
12. Using tools
13. Being helpless if something happens while at home alone
14. Using the shower or bathtub (where many falls occur)
15. Tying shoelaces, neckties and bows
16. Moving around the house without slipping or falling.

And for those living in colder climates, shoveling snow and dealing with winter conditions can create a challenge as well.

Although it is certainly not true that all elderly people have these problems, caregivers might want to keep this information in mind…especially when you consider that one common characteristic associated with aging is denial. Those that took care of us all of our lives may not want to admit it when they need help. Helping to reduce the difficulties associated with aging can assist in minimizing its most common negative emotions of fear, loneliness, depression and feelings of helplessness – and increase the feeling of vitality. Exercise and staying active can help keep these problems from occurring.

Many times one of the most difficult challenge for caregivers is to find ways to assist that don’t highlight the elderly loved one’s need for help.

Would you like more information about Doolittle Home? Call 508-543-2694 for a complimentary tour.