Easter and Anzac Day is a time when many families reconnect with ageing loved ones.
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During this time you might be surprised to find your parent or grandparent seems frailer ... but it might just be a state of mind.
Research on ageing people living in communities, rather than residential aged care, found good mental health and positive self-perceptions are vital to ageing well at home.
“You don’t become frail just because you reach a certain age,” said IRT at Home CEO, Gy Wallace.
“Many people in their 80s and 90s live full and vital lives.”
“Feeling depressed or believing you are frail are key drivers to fragility — that’s where you think you can’t do something, so don’t even try.”
Mr Wallace said Anzac Day ceremonies are a good example.
“Sadly many elderly people have given up their much-loved Anzac Day traditions.
“If we take the time to understand why, it’s usually about transport and seating, two things that can be easily managed,” he said.
“By helping our loved ones reconnect with their community and traditions, they might see they’re not as frail and helpless as they think.”
In fact, the research by Lynn Hackstaff PhD found that staying physically active was crucial to preventing older people from becoming frail.
Accurately diagnosing and treating depression was also vital.
But how do you know if your parent or grandparent is depressed or less frail than they think? Mr Wallace says visiting their local GP is a good first step.
“It can be really hard to have these conversations with your loved ones, so consulting their GP and getting expert advice is really important,” he said.
“And it’s a good idea to talk to them about how they’re feeling before you go.”
According to beyondblue, if an older person has been feeling down or lost interest in their usual activities for more than two weeks, they may be depressed.
Speaking to people who see your loved one regularly, like neighbours, might help you determine if their mood and behaviour has changed.
If depression’s not the problem, they might just need a little help at home.
Mr Wallace says you could consider seeing what government-funded help they’re entitled to.
“Many Sutherland Shire seniors already get government-funded help to stay socially and physicallyactive, do their shopping, maintain their home or manage chronic health conditions.
“It’s possible your loved one may be missing out,” he said.
- To find out more, visit myagedcare.gov.au or phone 1800 200 422. You can contact beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or visit www.beyondblue.org.au