Taking care of elderly at home : approaches for the family caregivers

Abstract

Most of the elderly stay at home, along with their family members. Some live alone and others in old age homes. The preference to stay in the family home is well recognised. The care of the elderly primarily involves basic care for the activities of daily life, support regarding illnesses, providing medications and other medical treatment, nursing care, and dealing with psychological stress and loneliness. Caring is an enjoyable experience, but can be psychologically stressful for the family caregivers beyond a point, and many may suffer from burnout. While most families understand the needs of their elderly members and try to support them, there are still concerns of inadequate care, neglect, and even abuse. Lack of time is often quoted as the reason by the family members, besides lack of awareness and expertise in taking care. Awareness of the needs of the elderly, a family-specific strategy, and keenness to care can change the scenario, and the quality of care the elderly get in their family home by the members can be greatly improved.