5 ways to support an elderly relative

We all want to be able to support our elderly relatives. They did a lot for us when we were young, so it’s about time we returned the favor.

However, with COVID-19 creating an unsafe environment, it can be more difficult to support our elderly relatives as we don’t want to risk passing on germs. But, with older people staying home more to avoid the virus, they need help now more than ever. So, here are 5 ways to support an elderly relative.

Life admin
Sometimes, elderly relatives might need help with life admin, such as organizing finances or making payments. If your relative is a veteran and has a health problem, for example, they may be entitled to certain financial aids such as VA disability for tinnitus. However, it can be difficult to know where to start with all of this, especially if your relative doesn’t use the internet. Help them with their life admin to ensure they’re getting everything they’re entitled to.

Do their shopping
Your elderly relative is probably staying at home as much as possible right now. This is a sensible move, to prevent them from getting COVID. However, this might mean they don’t have a way to get the provisions they need, such as groceries. So, you might want to step in and start doing their weekly shop for them. Alternatively, help them to order their groceries online.

Check in
It’s important for your elderly relative to know you’re thinking about them. They might be feeling isolated and lonely as they aren’t able to do their regular activities. Older people who live on their own are particularly vulnerable, and risk getting geriatric depression. So, make sure you check in on them regularly. A quick phone call could make their day – or you could stand outside their house and wave through the window. We all need human communication to get by, and it’s important for your relative to know that you care.

Get them online
Despite your efforts to speak to your relative as often as possible, they might still be feeling disconnected from the outside world. So, if they aren’t using the internet already, why not help them to get online? If they are able to browse the internet or message friends they’ll feel much less isolated. There are plenty of charities that can help with this, too.

Wear a mask
How does wearing a mask out and about help your elderly relative? It helps prevent the spread of the virus. If everyone wore a mask, the less likely germs would spread. This would then make the outside world a much safer place. So, wear a mask to protect your elderly relative. We all want to say goodbye to COVID-19 as quickly as possible, so do your bit.