As our parents reach an advanced age, their desires to experience dignity, freedom and fulfilment in their day-to-day lives become a big focus. Upholding these wishes is key to making sure their twilight years resonate with their beliefs and standards.
This article discusses the importance of understanding such needs and wishes, and suggests several pragmatic ways to uphold our elderly parents’ preferences.
Understanding Our Parent’s Viewpoint
Comprehending the viewpoint of our elderly parents means we need to adopt their position and look at the world through their lense with compassion and mindfulness. It’s vital to foster transparent and sincere conversations about their anticipations and desires, whether these relate to living arrangements, healthcare or even end-of-life considerations.
To discover and uphold the views of our parents, we must listen attentively without bias, and create an environment for discussion which is friendly and comforting.
Honouring Their Independence
Often, relatives and caregivers attempt to shield their elderly loved ones, making choices for them in an effort to ‘guard’ their welfare. Whilst this may come with the best of intentions, it’s essential to remember that they are adults who have experienced rich lives, instilled with wisdom and strong decision-making abilities.
So, it’s better to uphold their independence, encourage their active engagement in decision-making processes wherever possible and take into account their recommendations and views with due respect and kindness.
Advocating for Consistency
We’re all the result of a tapestry of life experiences, favourite pursuits and activities and a distinct set of values, and our elderly parents are no different. It’s been found that elderly people crave a consistency in their lives.
As a result, children and caregivers of elderly people should try to continue their parent’s treasured routines, hobbies and social interaction as much as possible. By doing so, we respect their desires, affirm their individuality, and potentially enhance their overall contentment and gratification.
Participation in Healthcare Choices
Healthcare choices tend to be a significant area of concern in elderly care. However, healthcare shouldn’t be simply delegated to doctors and other professionals. Instead, we need to ensure our elderly parents’ voices are reflected in their healthcare decisions to foster their sense of fulfilment. This involves gaining a meaningful understanding of treatment options, likely impacts and their personal preferences, so their wishes are supported and nerves are calmed.
Final thoughts
Upholding the wishes of our elderly parents isn’t just about guessing what will make them feel content. It involves acknowledging their distinct personality, wisdom and life experiences. We need to firstly understand their viewpoint, honour their independence, advocate for consistency in their lives and make sure they are active in their healthcare decisions. In doing so, we will lay the foundations for their twilight years to embody dignity and personal gratification.
Most importantly, by taking these actions, our elderly loved ones will know they are appreciated and respected individuals whose choices, preferences and identities are recognised. Regardless of the changes that ageing may bring, the potential to make choices and lead lives remains undeterred.
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