As people age, their bodies go through a lot of changes. Some of these changes can put them at a higher risk of developing health problems that require hospitalisation. This can be very concerning for family members and if you have a loved one who is still living independently at home, you may be worried about their health and well-being. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help your elderly relative remain safe and healthy at home.
Below we have explored some of the reasons why elderly people are more likely to end up in the hospital and what you can do to help prevent this from happening. We have also touched on how a home care agency can support your elderly relative whilst they continue living in the comfort and familiarity of their own home.
Weakened Immune System
When people get older, their immune system weakens and becomes less effective, making them more susceptible to common infections and diseases. This weakened immune system makes it harder for the body to fight off infections, which can lead to health problems. For example, elderly people can experience more severe symptoms of flu viruses.
Strengthening the immune system is very important, it can help to keep your elderly relative healthy and out of the hospital. There are a few different things they can do to support their weakened immune system, such as having flu vaccinations, eating a nutrient-rich diet, taking vitamins, staying active and getting plenty of sleep.
Falls and Accidents
Elderly people are more likely to experience falls and accidents, which can lead to serious injuries that require hospitalisation. Bones naturally get weaker with age, so fractures and breaks are more common in later life. Falls can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor balance, vision problems and the side effects of medication.
To help prevent falls, it’s beneficial to remove trip hazards from your elderly loved one’s home. You should also ensure they’re having regular eye tests and wearing required prescription glasses. Regular exercise can help to strengthen your elderly relative’s muscles and improve their mobility too, which can reduce the risk of falls.
Medication Mismanagement
It’s common for people to take medication as they age to help them manage health conditions. Whilst medications are often essential, they can have side effects and also interact with each other, which can lead to hospitalisation. For example, some blood thinners can cause bleeding problems and pain medication can cause digestion problems.
You should ensure you’re familiar with the common side effects of your loved one’s medications and this can help you to keep them safe. It’s also essential to carefully manage their medication. If they take medications incorrectly, they’re more likely to experience problems that result in them having to spend time in the hospital.
Social Isolation
Many don’t realise that social isolation can also negatively impact elderly people’s physical and mental health. Spending lots of time at home by themselves can lead to things like depression, anxiety and poor self-rated health. When these health problems aren’t managed correctly, they may require hospitalisation.
Preventing loneliness and social isolation is undeniably important. Try to encourage your loved one to get out of the house and stay engaged with their community, whether this is by participating in social activities or volunteering. Keeping in touch with friends and family, and having regular visits from people can make a big difference too.
Designing a Care Plan for Your Elderly Relative
Although elderly people are more likely to end up in the hospital due to a combination of factors, you can take steps to manage increased risks. If you’re worried about being able to keep your elderly relative safe and healthy at home, home care services can be very beneficial. A bespoke care plan can be created for your loved one that is designed to support them with day-to-day tasks and help them to maintain the highest quality of life possible.
An experienced home care agency will discuss your concerns with you and ensure your loved one receives the support they need to stay safe and healthy at home. From assisting with meal preparation and medication management to providing companionship and keeping the home tidy, a team of carers can provide comprehensive care at home. You can have peace of mind that your loved one is being taken care of when you work with a home care agency and they will be less likely to have preventable hospital stays.
Speak to an Agency About Elderly Care Services at Home in Trafford
Here at Beloved Homecare, we provide elderly care services at home in Trafford and the surrounding areas including Urmston, Sale and Altrincham. We support elderly, convalescing and disabled clients to continue living independently at home whilst reducing their risk of hospitalisation. If you have any questions about the way our care team can support your loved one to enjoy a better quality of life, don’t hesitate to contact us. We will happily discuss your elderly relative’s care needs with you in more detail.