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(1) Maintain Independence
and feeling of Self-Worth |
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Not becoming dependent on family, but making own
decisions on how to live, and participate with others of
similar age, does wonders for the self. Help is
provided when needed, but each is encouraged to do for
self, as much as possible to maintain and even stimulate
mental and physical health. |
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So many people I have visited, are suffering from
depression, because they have stopped most activity,
except sitting and watching TV. In this condition, it
is more likely for them to feel bad, age faster, and
call others regularly to express their problems. Ex. I
had one lady who said she would move, but didn't want to
go to the dining room for meals or entertainment. She
planned to stay in her room and pray. Next time I
visited her at the community, she was in the middle of
the group, having a great time listening to the
entertainer and watching people dance. She also was
going to all her meals in the dining room. What a
pleasure it was to see the change in her. |
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(3) Freshly prepared meals
eaten with others. |
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Not only will the nutrition improve, but the friendships
aid in eating better, slower, and improve digestion. |
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Just walking to the dining room as
well as activities will aid in better physical and
mental stimulation |
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This is provided once a week, and takes care of the
drudgery so the pleasant things in life can be enjoyed,
as well as lessening the possibilities of falling.
Also, most older people have difficulty keeping their
homes clean, due to bad eyesight, difficulty in
organizing, or just carrying out the cleaning
activities. Controlling the dusts, molds, etc.
could really help them feel better |
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Most communities include transportation to the doctors,
banks, stores, activities, etc. This is such a help for
them as well as other drivers. They can sit back and
enjoy the ride, and get assistance, if needed. |
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Most of the communities have very
active social calendars to choose from, including
musical entertainment, special candlelight dinners,
out-to-lunch bunch, cards, and of course, BINGO!!
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but as you can
see, there are many benefits to help people maintain and
oftentimes, improve their health. It is very difficult
for some to make a decision and move, but I have had
very few, who weren't glad they did it! They usually
wonder why they didn't do it sooner.
Families often have guilt, feeling that they should
bring their parent into their home, but usually it
becomes an emotional battle, where no one is happy. The
parent feels like a dependent, having no space of their
own, and the family feels pressured and torn between
caring for their parent and for their spouse and
children. How much better it works, if the parent
can have their own space, independence, and still be
growing, learning and having fun with others in similar
situations. And the family can visit and do fun things
with them, and not be stressed. |
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