He was most probably your first man in shining armour. He took you to school, made sure your grades were always good, stared at boys or girls who tried to flirt with you, told you to get a job but to also pursue your dreams (dads can be confusing too!) and made awkward jokes when your friends came over.
But, he’s also getting older. He can no longer lift heavy things nor drive at night without needing his glasses. So, in a Father’s Day special treat, we bring you simple yet meaningful things you can do to help him as he ages, gracefully.
Jog That Memory
He took his medication an hour ago. But, now he has forgotten what he took and whether he even took his medication in the first place. Or it could be a case of where he kept his reading glasses when all along, it could be resting above his forehead. Memory loss among the elderly is common with some studies saying it even begins at the age of 45 for some men. The key takeaway here is to help dad if he’s experiencing some form of memory loss. It helps to keep a whiteboard in the house and to write/mark things down for easy reference later.
Kick The Sedentary
He’s not as fit as he use to be and these days, dad prefers to just sit on the couch all day watching endless TV shows. As he grows older, his limbs and muscles still require some form of exercise or he will just be in more pain and discomfort later. How about a walk in the park, together? Perhaps over the weekends with other family members in tow.
Catch Him When He Falls
Due to a more sedentary lifestyle, dad’s limbs and muscles will be prone to more health risks such as falls and fractures. As much as you would like to be around at all times, this is not possible. If you think your dad requires physical assistance from time to time, a walker or a walking stick would be helpful. If you stay in a house with floors, it would make sense to have dad sleeping in a room on the lower ground level and thus keeps him away from climbing up or down stairs. In any case, it is best to consult the doctor on what sort of physical assistance is best for him.
Medication Woes
Sometimes it could be a case of forgetfulness or sometimes it could be a case of simply not wanting to take medication as it just makes him feel ‘sick’. Talk to him or get someone from the family to advise him that the medication is needed for him to eventually feel better. If dad still refuses, perhaps the medication can be incorporated into foods and drinks. As long as it enters his body!
Talk About Depression
If your dad stays home alone or he no longer has the comfort of a spouse or partner, he quite possibly will face bouts of loneliness even if you drop by every weekend. If you notice irregular mood swings, loss of appetite and he just tends to skip social events and rather keeps to himself, he may be experiencing some form of depression. Talk to him about it and see if it requires more family members to participate in the discussion or if it requires professional help. Don’t leave it be as his mental health is just as important.
Don’t Skip The Doctors
Older people tend to prefer visiting the doctor and sorting several health complications at the same time. They don’t fancy having several follow-ups. It makes sense because sometimes even we don’t enjoy the idea of having multiple trips to the hospital or clinic. But, be patient with him and don’t skip out on any doctor’s appointments. If possible, make an arrangement for future dates to be convenient for dad.
Think Ahead And Be Inclusive
Is there an anniversary or a birthday party around the corner? Get dad involved even if it means sitting in the living room and watching the kids unwrap presents. Making him feel that he’s needed and part of the family will always keep his spirit a little energised.
Housekeeping Duties
So, he may no longer be able to do loads of dishwashing, laundry or even cook for himself as it may prove to be a harm to himself or others. Perhaps it is time to invest in a help, either on a permanent or temporary basis. But, don’t take away all his regular routines as this may disrupt his days and even anger him. Just no heavy-lifting!
Treat Him Like An Adult
Whatever said and done, treating a 50 year man like a child usually doesn’t end well for anyone. As much as he may throw a temper tantrum, tell him things as how it is. He is still an adult and your father, so give him the respect he deserves.
Above All, Be Gentle
Be gentle and love the man just as how he has loved and continues to love you and your family!
