Tips for Helping Your Elderly Loved One Set Realistic Goals
Now that your elderly loved one isn’t working, it may be tough for them to get things done. They may not know how to reach their goals, now that they are getting older. It is important to remind your elderly loved ones that they can still achieve their goals. You and their caregivers can help them to get things done. Here are some tips for helping your elderly loved one to set realistic goals.
Senior Care in Glenview IL: Setting Senior Goals
Have a Purpose
When you are talking to your elderly loved one about their goals, ask them what the purpose of the goal is. For example, if they want to lose 10 pounds, might the purpose be that they want to have more energy and be in less pain? If your elderly loved ones can identify the purpose of their goals, they will be more likely to stick with the plans made to reach that goal. It may be helpful for your elderly loved one to write down the purpose of their goal alongside the name of the goal.
Setting and Realizing Expectations
What expectations does your elderly loved one have? If they expect that they will be able to get a bunch of things done in a short time frame, they will be less likely to meet their goals. However, you and their caregivers can help them to set and realize their expectations. For example, if your elderly loved one can’t do much more than walking and light exercises, it may take them a bit longer to lose weight. Making sure your elderly loved one’s expectations are set to what they are capable of doing, is a great tip for achieving the goals.
Take Small Steps
Another part of setting up realistic goals is to take small steps. It may be necessary to remind your elderly loved one that goals take time, especially the larger ones. In addition, your elderly loved one is more likely to succeed with their goals if they have smaller steps set up along the way. For instance, with a weight loss goal of 20 pounds, your elderly loved one may set a smaller goal of losing 3 pounds in 4 weeks. With these smaller goals, your elderly loved ones can feel better about their achievements as they work toward the ultimate goal.
Motivating Them
Your elderly loved one may also need motivation, even if they have realistic goals set up. You and their caregivers can be there to encourage them or work on their goals with them. For instance, you may have a weight loss goal of your own. If so, you can set a plan along with your elderly loved one. This can make them feel like they aren’t alone.
Conclusion
These are some of the tips for helping your elderly loved one to set realistic goals. Realistic goals will help your elderly loved one to be more successful, feel better, and not put so much pressure on themselves.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Senior Care in Glenview, IL, call the caring staff at LifeCare Home Health & In-Home Services. Call (888) 606-4199 LifeCare serves all of the Chicago Metro Area.
Sources
https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newHTE_90.htm
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