Whether decline is fairly slow, or seemingly overnight, the loss of independence is a leading cause of depression in seniors. Whether speaking of loss of a driver’s license, the need for a cane or walker, or needing assistance with multiple ADLs—it is essential to allow seniors to maintain as much independence as possible.

Showing Compassion for Their Loss of Independence

As a senior care professional, you’re sure to be happy to help in any and all ways your job requires. Although you’re happy to help, you must balance helping, with showing compassion for your client’s loss of independence. Most of us give little thought to the ease in which we move about our day, but seniors with declined mobility would give anything to have that ease back again. Instead of doing everything for your senior, determine what they can still do for themselves—and allow them the dignity and respect to do what they can.

Invest in the Right Tools

There are a multitude of tools and safety aids designed to help seniors maintain as much independence as possible. Invest in these tools for your clients, or let your senior and their family members know their options. Depending on your senior’s needs, some of these tools may be covered by their insurance provider. A few examples include:

• kitchen and dining aids—easy grip cups, plates, utensils, easy grip jar openers, etc.
• dressing aids—elastic shoe laces, button hook, zipper pull, extended shoe horn, etc.
• bathing aids—shower bench, extended combs and brushes, extended loofas, etc.
• social and communication aids—easy grip pen and pencil, reading glasses designed for reading while lying flat, large print books, phones, clocks, etc.
   

Practice Patience

While you may be able to button their blouse, tie their shoelaces, and comb their hair all in just a few minutes, many seniors would rather complete these tasks solo—even if it takes longer. This goes beyond pride or modesty, to a simple sense of accomplishment. This will require you to practice patience, but it’s worth the sense of fulfillment you see once they’re done.
It might be hard to imagine being on the receiving end of care, but try to understand how frustrated and unfilled you would feel if someone did everything for you. As the saying goes, “If you don’t use it, you lose it.” If you don’t allow and encourage your seniors to do what they still can themselves, their decline is likely to occur at a more rapid rate.