Tuesday, November 2, 2010

The Cure for Depression in Seniors - Family Unity

We have all faced sadness in our lives, whether because of the death of a loved one, the break-up of a relationship, or having to part with something treasured. The normal emotional process of loss clearly involves pain, but also must involve recovery. Many of today’s elderly find it harder and harder to recuperate from a loss. Many seniors are left to deal with the pain by themselves, and do not have the access to those small things in life that help us to recuperate from emotional trauma. The communal constructs in today’s society simply do not encourage a healthy aging process. It is too common nowadays to find many seniors living alone. Since the industrial revolution, the American culture has encouraged fiscal growth for the individual, rather than family unity. Young men and women have not only moved out of the home they grew up in, but many times have also left the state or the country in search of their personal success. This has resulted in a society of abandoned parents and aging adults.

Family unity is one of the most effective ways of improving the health and outlook of an aging individual. However, promoting family unity can be difficult depending on the circumstances and you may need
some help. Hiring the services of a health care agency such as Constant Companions, a San Diego Home Care provider can help you deal with the stress of caring for an elderly person.
Growing up, most of us looked up to our parents as the most powerful force in our adolescent lives. It would be hard for many of us to consider our parents as possessing any weakness. This is why many do not even think twice before leaving their parents house and putting huge distances in between these relationships. However, as time passes and the visits and phone calls become less frequent, it becomes easier and easier to miss the signs of depression that an aging loved one may be facing.
As we age, it is inevitable to begin experiencing an increase of loss; the loss of motor skills, the loss of friends, the loss of a job, and the loss of our partners. The life of a senior can be full of loss when left alone with only their memories to keep them company. The balancing factors that would normally cure depression in the elderly are no longer easily available. They often times do not have many friends in which to confide, and many no longer have their partners with which to share their pain. The only ones who can help, live hundreds of miles away, and they only see each other a few times each year. It is no wonder why many seniors claim to feel abandoned during their “golden years.” Read more about Temecula Home Care The natural balance of life would normally allow a senior to age appropriately with a healthy emotional well being. The loss in their lives would be balanced by being present to witness the new things in life that give them a reason to live. Such things include watching their grandchildren take their first steps,watching them read their first words, and celebrating their children’s professional success. If we rob our aging population of such things, we can expect to see a rise in depression in seniors, and a lowered quality of life. It is easy for a senior to be saddened by all of the loss in their lives. Perpetual sadness can lead to depression, and depression can lead to death. In order to combat depression, a well balanced environment must be provided for our seniors. Encourage them to participate in social events and to make new friends. Encourage them to learn new skills and to find a purpose in life, but most importantly, encourage family unity. Nothing will bring life to the face of a grandparent like a hug and kiss from a loving grandchild.
Family unity is one of the most effective ways of improving the health and outlook of an aging individual. However, promoting family unity can be difficult depending on the circumstances and you may need some help. Hiring a part time or full time in-home caregiver can help you deal with the stress of caring
or an elderly person. Support from a caregiver can include help in cleaning, cooking, medication reminders, incontinence care, and general physical company. At Constant Companions, a San Diego Home Care company, we encourage family support for the elderly, but understand the demands of life often require you to seek assistance. In those instances, rest assured that we will be there for you.

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