It comes as no surprise that as we age, our senses gradually (sometimes dramatically) decline. The most noticeable changes usually affect our vision and hearing, which can make it more difficult for the elderly to interact with others and participate in activities. In addition, these sensory changes likely increase the need for elderly homecare in Phoenix.
For people experiencing a decline in their senses, simple actions can often be taken to help maintain quality of life.
Hearing Loss: Aging adults may find it more and more challenging to talk on the phone or engage in conversations due to a decline in their ability to hear. Solutions include: hearing aids or professionals working in private medical care in Phoenix, to be sensitive to this loss and work to build up their clients’ confidence in conversing once again.
Smell: A loss in our ability to detect and identify odors can happen as we age. This can lead to embarrassing situations in which an elderly person may be unaware of body odor or excessive perfume use. Aging individuals are also at an increased risk for becoming involved in potentially dangerous situations such as a fire or contracting a food-borne illness, since they may not be able to detect smoke or spoiled food. Elderly homecare professionals can aid their seniors by bringing this to their attention in a respectful manner.
Taste: Things like dentures, certain medications and smoking can contribute to a diminishing sense of taste in older adults. This loss of taste can make it difficult for seniors to find eating enjoyable and therefore affect the nutrients they take in. Elderly homecare agencies can work with their clients to establish healthy, well-balanced diets while including specific foods that still taste good to the senior.
Touch/Sensitivity: As we age, our sense of touch often declines due to skin changes and reduced circulation, making us less sensitive to temperatures. Elderly homecare workers can provide assistance, and oversight, lessening the likelihood of a senior unintentionally injuring themselves.
Vision: Because of the many eye diseases that affect older people (i.e. cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, macular degeneration, etc.) there can be significant loss on visual acuity. Medical transportation assistance offered through an elderly homecare agency, often provides the safest choice for seniors with vision loss.
At Nightingale Homecare, we want to help family members and their aging loved ones avoid potentially embarrassing or dangerous situations. We also strive to improve the quality of life for each of our clients, encouraging activities and experiences even as the elder experiences sensory loss. That’s why as one of the top-rated providers of private medical and non-medical care in Phoenix, our friendly, knowledgeable staff is always available to assist you and to answer any questions you might. Please do not hesitate to give us a call (602) 504-1555 or contact us online, and allow yourself to experience the Nightingale Homecare difference.
