I recently read the following: “Experts know that an osteoporotic hip fracture is disastrous, as 12% to 40% of victims die within six months (partly because they tend to become depressed and more sedentary).” (1)
“. . . depressed and more sedentary”
Oh, that is an awful combination!
I would like to focus on those two aspects – depression and sedentary lifestyle.
Many of our seniors fall into those two categories, whether they have a broken hip or not.
What are some helpful tips to encourage movement and uplift a senior?
As a caregiver, you can encourage movement. Try the following:
Say, “Hey, Mom let’s go ______.” [fill in the blank – shopping, to the library, for a walk, outside, visit a friend, etc.]
Choose something that your loved one enjoys. Schedule it and do it!
Sometimes, (if apropros given the current pandemic), go out to eat.
Helps (basic) for saddness
Sometimes, just a visit from a loved one will lift one’s spirit.
Get out and do something – out for a walk, visit a flower garden, go shopping, get a favorite meal, etc.
A best practice – help someone else! Often a senior feels “worthless,” like their life lacks value or importance. They are no longer working. Sometimes a spouse has passed. Creatively think of ways they could help others – I’ve seen some of the following used:
- Visit in an assisted living home (provide music, read to people, chat with residents, etc.)
- Help with kids – nothing like the life of the young to lift the spirit of the older!
- Along similar lines, help a busy mom – fold laundry, iron, repair things around the house, etc.
- Be involved in church ministry
- Volunteer – RSVP is a great organization, etc.
- Write letters (perhaps an overseas orphan or penpal); call others
- Sponsor a needy child/family
Be involved in worthwhile community or church projects.
(If the depression is serious enough, make sure to seek professional medical advice.)
(1) Needs Natural News Vol. 4, Issue 6 p.2.
