Caregivers for the elderly are the unique set of people who provide care for the elderly in different areas of the country. AARP Policy Research Institute has found that around 34 million adults in the country provide care to elders on a voluntary basis and are unpaid.

Caregivers for the elderly can follow certain basic tips when it comes to providing care for them. Below are listed some of these tips that can make the life of elders better and comfortable.

Communication tips for caregivers
Communication with the elderly should ideally be simple and direct. Caregivers for the elderly should ensure that they should talk in a positive and happy manner with the care recipients. Eye contact should be established and the caregiver should communicate using the person’s name. A humane touch of a loved one by holding their hand in order to encourage conversation should be ensured. Asking simple questions in place of open-ended questions from the elderly will give them more comfort.

Care tips for caregivers
Majority of the time, the caregiver goes into activities like getting dressed or bathing of the person who is being cared about. A touch of generosity will definitely help the elderly feel better. Caregivers should ensure that the elderly wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes. Ensure that the person wears clothes that have elastic waistbands that make it easier for the person to dress up. Caregivers for the elderly should also ensure that the clothes are laid out in order so that the elderly get encouraged to wear their clothes themselves. At times, if the elderly find it difficult to brush their teeth after meals, rinsing the mouth should be encouraged. The caregivers should also ensure that a sturdy shower chair and handheld showerhead should be used so that chances of any accident are minimized.

Safety tips for caregivers
Falls are considered to be the most dangerous thing to happen to an elderly person. Caregivers for the elderly should ensure that elders remain safe in this aspect. Ideally, small throw rugs should be removed and double-sided adhesive tape should be used to attach large area rugs. Electrical cords, if any, should be bound to baseboards so that eventuality of an accident is minimized. Extra furniture, if any, should be removed out of the way so that easy movement for the elderly is ensured. All rooms should have adequate lighting so that the elderly are able to move around freely without any hindrance.

Caring for the elderly is a daunting task and requires patience and compassion on part of the caregiver. If the caregiver is able to follow the above-listed tips, not only does the work become easier but the elderly will also feel comfortable and loved.