How Do You Care For Elders In Nursing Homes?
Whether you are a health-care professional or a concerned relative, caring for a senior living in a nursing home can be a complicated undertaking, especially if he is finding the transition difficult. The most important thing is to make sure you are as patient and understanding with the senior as you can be. Treat the senior with respect. Do not talk down to him, or use words like “honey” or “sweetheart.” Do not speak to him as if he is a child, talking loudly and over-pronouncing words, unless it is impossible to communicate with him otherwise. Don’t discuss his private business in front of others or talk about him as if he is not in the room. Explain everything to him in a very clear way so he is not confused as to what is happening. If you are taking his blood pressure, tell him what you are doing and why you are doing it. For example: “I’m taking your blood pressure now to check and see how you are doing.” Don’t keep him in the dark. Confusion will lead to distress for the senior,
