Tips for Boosting an Older Loved One’s Self-Image

Some seniors may find it difficult to stay positive about themselves and their situations. Age-related health conditions, decreased independence, and social isolation can all lead to a negative perception of how they’re viewed by others. However, you can help your elderly loved one realize his or her worth and maintain a positive self-image by taking these steps. 

Start a Conversation with Your Loved One

Everyone has a story to tell and wants someone to listen. Ask your loved one about his or her life, and show genuine interest in the answers. By asking your loved one for advice or opinions, you can help him or her feel valued, which can boost his or her self-esteem. 

Low self-esteem can result in mental, emotional, and physical challenges for aging adults, but seniors don’t have to handle them alone. Home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.

Encourage Independence

Support your loved one in being as independent as possible. Low self-esteem may develop when your loved one is unable to perform simple tasks. Focus on what your loved one can do and provide enough freedom to encourage a positive self-image. If there are certain tasks that are more difficult to accomplish, consider hiring a caregiver to help. 

Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Las Vegas, NV, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.

Recommend a Hobby

A sense of purpose is essential for positive mental health. If your loved one can no longer participate in activities he or she previously enjoyed, suggest a new hobby. A hobby can give your loved one something to look forward to, projects to complete, and a meaningful way to spend his or her time. 

Go Out Together for Fun

It may be difficult for your loved one to go out independently and frustrating to rely on others for transportation, which can lead to low self-esteem. Boost your loved one’s morale by planning a special outing where you do something enjoyable together. Your loved one’s self-image may grow by spending time out as part of the community. 

Keep Your Loved One Socially Connected

We all need support when going through life changes. Your loved one may find it especially beneficial to be part of a community of peers going through similar life events. Talking with others who share the same experiences can give your loved one a positive sense of belonging. No matter what challenges your loved one faces, a positive self-image can still be maintained with the help of family and friends. 

Poor self-image is one of many components that can contribute to decreased mental and physical health in seniors. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of in-home care. Las Vegas families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care Las Vegas to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia. Whether your aging parent needs hourly or live-in care, give us a call at 702-919-0231 today.