How to Shop with Seniors

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shopping with aging loved ones

Unfortunately, senior citizens often battle health issues that decrease mobility and make independence difficult. This can mean staying home most of the time and relying on family members or an in-home senior caregiver in Clearwater, FL to provide care and needed personal items. It is important, however, to get your aging loved ones out of the house for some socialization and exercise whenever you can. A shopping trip can be the perfect outing, affording your elderly parent an opportunity to feel more in control of their life by choosing the food, clothing and personal items they want. Here are some ways to make the trip easier on both you and your aging loved one.

Pay Attention to Time

Schedule the shopping trip for the time of day that works best for your senior. Avoid shopping after administering medication that causes unwanted side effects like drowsiness or frequent trips to the bathroom. If your loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia, keep in mind symptoms tend to get worse in the evening. Also be aware of how long you are out, as a full day away from home may be too much. Take frequent breaks, even on short trips.

Opt for Familiar Ground

Go to stores and malls you and your senior know well. Both you and your older shopping companion will feel more comfortable if you know where benches, bathrooms and snacks are located. Familiarity also helps those who suffer from mild dementia feel grounded and safe. When in an unfamiliar place, ask if a map is available so you can find what you need efficiently.

Gather Your Needs

Before leaving the house, make sure you have everything you will need for your outing. Double-check that you have any needed medications, canes, walkers, oxygen tanks and other items before you go anywhere. If you plan on renting a scooter or taking advantage of other amenities at your destination, call ahead to make sure that the mobility device will be available when you get there.

Get Help

Sometimes your schedule and your senior’s simply aren’t compatible. Consider hiring help from a Clearwater Home care agency in these instances. Trusted and experienced caregivers can provide your loved one with companionship and assistance on an as-needed basis. Choose an agency such as Home Care Assistance, that thoroughly screens their caregivers so that you can rest assured knowing that your loved one is in good hands.

For more information on how an hourly or 24/7 caregiver from Clearwater can help your aging loved one, call 727-330-7862 today.

 

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