Even if you’ve been asked and answered a question repeatedly, remember that at least 20% of people over the age of 65 have mild cognitive impairment. However, when caring for a senior, something as simple as making eye contact when they are talking to you (instead of attending to other tasks) can show that you care about them and that they say matters.įamily members who serve as caretakers and professional caregivers should prioritize patience when working with elderly populations. Multi-tasking is often necessary in life and our careers. You may be forgetful or struggle to move without assistance. So, before you get frustrated with a senior citizen in your life, remember that one day, you may struggle to speak loud enough for others to hear. With every passing day, we are all getting older. If we are lucky, we will all live a long life. Remember that You May Need Help When You’re OlderĪging isn’t something that happens to others. To show empathy to elderly family members or residents in a facility where you work, try offering to help before they have to ask for your help.Ģ. ![]() Examples of tasks that seniors may need help with include bathing, toileting, dressing, hair styling, eating, and walking. ![]() However, as people get older, routine tasks they once did unassisted will often require help. For these people, asking for help may feel like giving up control. Studies show that almost 75% of people are reluctant to ask for help. Here are five tips for learning to empathize and care for seniors. ![]() The fact that empathy can be learned is good news if you’re considering a career in caregiving. Psychologists believe that people are born with the capacity for empathy, but it is a learned behavior. Specifically, when you empathize with another, you try to imagine or understand someone else’s emotional experience. When you empathize with others, you effectively put yourself in their shoes.
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