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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How do I care for an elderly person?

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    Carers
    My parents are approaching their 70’s and while both are in fairly good health at the moment I’m wondering how best to support them as they move further into old age.
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    • Jade Hucker
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    Thanks

    Jade Hucker

    Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist

    This is an excellent question and its great that you are starting to think ahead!
    It is a good idea to take the opportunity to talk to your parents now about how they see themselves in five or ten years and to discuss different options that they find agreeable should their health deteriorate.
    Make sure that they both have a good General Practitioner that they see regularly and that they are comfortable talking to. There are alot of great services aimed at keeping elderly persons independent in their own homes for as long as possible (e.g. Homecare, Meals On Wheels) and your GP should be able to assist with getting access to these services if they become necessary.
    Finally, remember that prevention is better than cure. Encourage them to stay as active as possible. For example, you could encourage them to go for a walk together each day, join a Tai Chi class, take up golf. There are a number of community groups that run light exercise classes for over 65s, check with your local community centre or council. Also, encourage them to keep their minds active by doing puzzles, reading,etc. 

    Jade Hucker
    Clinical Psychologist

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