Vision loss can be reductive for seniors in many other aspects of life. It could reduce their overall safety, affect the responses their bodies have to other health issues, and much more. One of the most important losses can be that of an independent lifestyle and the eventual reliance upon caregivers to make sure that daily life is upheld in a safe and healthy manner.
Low vision may not lead to the point of blindness, but it can still lead to a great deal of danger along with many other risks throughout daily life. It can be hard to find caregivers who are able to provide all of the necessary support for your loved one with low vision. The challenge of keeping them happy and comfortable on a daily basis, along with the maintenance of at least a certain level of independence can be extremely great. There is no reason to allow your loved one to believe that they are losing access to quality daily life, even if some of the basic tasks like reading, recognizing faces, and driving, may eventually not be available.
8 Tips to Improve Environment for Seniors with Low Vision:
1. Control glare with the use of window coverings and adjustable lighting.
2. Increase contrast with things like painted door trim, outlet and light switch covers, and contrasting tape on steps.
3. Games or cards can include certain enlarged, tactile versions (e.g. board games, playing cards, puzzles, bingo cards, etc.).
4. When walking with a senior facing vision loss, offer physical support like your arm to hold onto, or walk a half step in front to provide a blocking image from items they might trip over or run into.
5. Keep verbal communication with a senior facing low vision direct, without placing them outside the conversation or changing it to be between caregivers and family members. Make sure that seniors remember their opinions and decisions are just as important as everyone else’s.
6. If needed, describe place settings and food arrangements during mealtime so that they can participate in mealtime confidently without questioning what they may or may not be able to see well.
7. Considering the fact that throw rugs and low-lying furniture add to the risk of falls prevent them in the decoration of the home. (Also allow your senior to speak openly about any fear he/she may have about one of those items on which they may have slipped even slightly in the past.)
8. It is a good idea to generally avoid moving furniture around, especially without announcing these changes ahead of time, because of the risk of falls and injuries.
Basically, it is important for caregivers to help your senior loved ones with low vision at least retain a certain amount of independence. There is no reason for confidence to be lost simply because vision is reduced or even lost. Luckily, caregivers should be able to provide the comfort and support that help seniors keep the skills they need for quality of life and even the longest life.
Caregivers are able to help with physical activity, regular daily activities (e.g. eating, cleaning, socializing, etc.), and much more. Caregivers can keep your loved ones active while still confident, and with the support and care they need, a special quiet space could be a location in your senior’s home where they can listen to the radio, audiobooks, or other activities that they can complete on their own.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring a Home Care in Carlsbad, CA, please call Mom's Home Care and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Our number is 323-244-4789
SourcesVisionaware.org/infoVisionaware.org
