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Opinion

Nursing a mother

ESSENCE - Ligaya Rabago - Visaya - The Freeman

I am a senior already. At this point in our lives, as seniors, we already have to cope with a few difficult health conditions. Every now and then, I feel the need to see a doctor. It is even more difficult, though, when we have family members who already need our time and attention. For me, whose mother is almost a century old, this is unquestionably accurate.

However, being close-knit families, we Filipinos still place a high importance on taking care of our elderly, that we step in to help them when their strength starts to wane and assistance is required. It also becomes expected of those who are here to take care of their loved ones when you have a large family and some of the members have already moved abroad with their own families.

We anticipate our mother's health concern, which is why when her blood pressure has just skyrocketed, we immediately took her to the hospital. She needs a family member to be there to tend to her immediate needs. A family member finds this task extremely challenging because of her potentially erratic attitude. A person who usually supports her might need to be more patient.

The Philippines, which has seven million older persons overall, values family relationships highly. Elderly family members typically reside with their children, depending on them for care and financial support. I've moved forward in my role as a responsible family member by learning more about the crucial actions we must take to guarantee the well-being of our aging loved ones.

It is imperative that we educate ourselves. Learn about senior care guidelines and first-aid techniques if we decide to take care of our aging family member at home. Their quality of life can be improved by small actions, such as putting them in a room near the bathroom or on the ground floor. To support their suggested diet, think about putting in toilet rails, employing professionals, and cooking wholesome meals.

Talk to the people we love about the future. Having enough money is essential, particularly if they depend on medication and medical equipment for upkeep. Ask for help from the government with pension plans and other senior benefits that are available.

It is necessary to think about making safety adjustments. If a loved one has trouble moving around or has impaired eyesight or hearing, make necessary adjustments to their home safety and think about strategies to lower risks. Declutter pathways, provide handrails, and upgrade lighting.

Ensuring appropriate medical treatment is a critical component of managing healthcare requirements. To ensure that we routinely attend doctor's appointments and adhere to prescribed treatments, we may want to think about hiring a private nurse or caretaker to help with drug administration and other medical needs.

Another factor is to maintain a healthy lifestyle by promoting social connection, mental and physical stimulation, and physical activity. Take into account our loved one's interests and involve them in special activities. More beneficial relationships are fostered in a setting.

Others may think this is needless, but asking for assistance is only one component of the family's holistic approach to handling this situation. Let us not be afraid to request help. Let us make contact with local organizations that specialize in elder care, community programs, and support groups.

After all, taking care of our aging family members is more than just our obligation; it's also a chance for us to show our love, compassion, and appreciation for everything that they have done for us. Let us respect our elderly by giving them the attention they deserve.

CARETAKER

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