Simply because your aging loved one is dealing with cognitive decline does not mean that they cannot continue to enjoy as much independence, autonomy, and engagement as they desire. Supporting this in your parent is an important part of being a family caregiver and of helping your parent preserve mental and emotional health and high quality of life as they age in place.

One way that you can help your parent maintain as much independence as possible as they age in place with cognitive functioning decline is with a careful and strategic organization of their home. This helps them to continue managing more of their daily activities on their own and with greater confidence.

Use these tips to help a senior with cognitive functioning decline maintain more independence through better organization:

-Store entire outfits together rather than requiring your parent to choose individual pieces.

-Reorganize their kitchen based on meal or snack rather than food. For example, label a cabinet with “breakfast” and fill it with coffee, creamer, cereal, granola bars, and other items your parent enjoys. Do the same for the other meals of the day and a “snack” cabinet. Include a laminated list on the inside of the door that tells them where to find refrigerated items such as milk to go with the other items.

-Fill their freezer with individual servings of meals that they only need to warm up and serve. Label with what it is and instructions on how to prepare it along with suggestions for sides to serve with it.

-Use plastic shoe boxes to organize items for personal care tasks and label them clearly. For example, label a box “shaving” and include shaving cream, disposable razors, and moisturizer.

If your parent has been struggling with challenges and needs such as limited mobility or a chronic health issue, now may be the ideal time for you to consider starting elderly care for them. An elderly home care services provider can be with your aging parent on a fully customized schedule that is designed to ensure your parent has access to all of the care that they need, while also keeping you at the forefront of their care routine. This care provider can fill care gaps and step in to help your parent manage their needs and challenges in the ways that are best for them according to their personality, individuality, thoughts, preferences, and goals. As their family caregiver this can give you peace of mind knowing that both when you are with them and when you are not, your parent will have what they need to live a lifestyle that is as independent and fulfilling as possible.

Are you or a family member considering hiring a caregiver in Carmichael, CA? Talk to the friendly staff at Golden Years In Home Senior Care.   Call Us Today 916-333-0383. We are here when you need us!