How to Help Senior Citizens Be Independent
- 1). Research the United States Government websites that list the available senior citizen resources. Become familiar with the agencies and laws that protect senior citizens against fraud, financial matters and abuse. Familiarize yourself with the available programs for senior citizens. Learn how to sign up your senior citizen for Medicare and Social Security benefits. Go to the National Benefits Check Up website to see what free or subsidized governmental benefits in which your senior is eligible. Use this information to help the senior in your life to become more independent.
- 2). Make home improvements in the home of your senior to make it safe from accidents. Look for bumps in carpet and flooring that can be tripping hazards. Make sure rugs have a rubber, slip-resistant backing. Install ramps over stairways to make it easier to climb the entrance to the home. Redesign the bathroom and shower with handles to prevent slipping. Install plastic, slip-resistant bath mats. Install an elevated toilet seat and a handle bar to help them stand up. Remove furniture that may cause a tripping hazard. In the kitchen, replace heavy dishes with lightweight ones. Make the cabinets lower or place items they most use within reach. Put a telephone in every room. Make sure the ringer is loud on the phone and doorbell.
- 3). Arrange to have Meals on Wheels delivered daily to your senior citizen's home. The meals are nutritious and affordable.
- 4). Research technology available to help senior citizens live independently. Buy an emergency response necklace or bracelet for your senior in which they can push a button for immediate emergency medical help. Buy a computerized or talking pillbox that will remind your senior when to take medication.
- 5). Help your senior citizen find a community center that has exercise classes, enrichment, educational classes and support systems for seniors. Many senior centers also provide free or low cost meals.
- 6). Talk to your senior's neighbors and ask them to help support and watch over your senior. Give your contact information to the neighbors in case of an emergency.
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