How to Take Care Of an Elderly Spouse

How do I take care of an elderly spouse?

Maybe that question keeps you up at night as you see your spouse’s health slowly deteriorate. 

Discovering how to take care of an elderly spouse is a task that can be challenging, rewarding, and exhausting. It’s important to remember that as your spouse ages, they may require more assistance with daily activities. 

But you’re not alone.

According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, an estimated 34.2 million Americans provide unpaid care to an adult over the age of 50—representing an economic value of around $470 billion.

So you’re not the only one wondering how to take care of an elderly spouse.

We have some tips and advice for you, as well as information on how assisted living can make a dramatic difference in the quality of life for both of you. 

Helpful Caregiving Solutions for How to Take Care of an Elderly Spouse 

If you’re caring for your spouse at home, there are some things you can do to help provide the care they need. We’ve outlined a few of them:

Develop a Routine

Establishing a routine can help your spouse feel more comfortable and secure. Try to schedule meals, medication, and activities at the same time each day to create a sense of structure.

Make Home Modifications

Make necessary modifications to your home to ensure it’s safe and accessible for your spouse. Install grab bars in the bathroom, remove tripping hazards, and consider a stair lift if necessary.

Hire Help

If you need additional support, consider hiring a caregiver to assist with daily tasks. A caregiver can provide companionship, help with meal preparation and personal hygiene, and assist with medication management. They are vital in discovering help on how to take care of an elderly spouse.

Stay Organized

Keep track of important appointments, medications, and other important information. Consider using a notebook or digital tool to keep all the necessary information in one place.

Practice Self-Care

Taking care of an elderly spouse can be exhausting, so it’s essential to prioritize self-care. Make time for activities you enjoy, take breaks when needed, and seek support from friends and family.

Find Relief

Caring for an elderly spouse can be emotionally and physically draining, and it’s important to find relief whenever possible. No doubt it’s one of the first things on your mind when discovering how to take care of an elderly spouse.

Here are a few ways to take a break and recharge:

  • Respite Care

      • Respite care provides short-term relief for caregivers by allowing their loved ones to stay in a facility for a designated period. This can provide caregivers with much-needed rest and time to take care of themselves.

  • Adult Day Care

      • Adult daycare provides seniors with supervised activities, meals, and socialization while giving caregivers a break. This can be a great option for caregivers who work or need a few hours to run errands.

  • Support Groups

    • You’ll find that you’re not the only one concerned about how to take care of an elderly spouse. When you join a support group, you’ll find that there are several others in the same position. 
    • It can be a great source of emotional support and helpful caregiving tips.

Assisted Living: A Beneficial Option for Spousal Care

While all of the above are great and effective solutions, they do not take into account the sheer exhaustion of caring for an elderly spouse. That’s something not everyone considers when wondering how to take care of an elderly spouse.  

Not only do you put your life on hold, but caregivers like you often do so at the expense of their own health. 

Assisted living is a great option for those who are no longer able to live independently but do not require the round-the-clock care of a nursing home. You may also find that when you compare what you are getting with assisted living—meals, round-the-clock care—it is a more economical choice than hiring outside help which still leaves you as the primary caregiver. 

Our assisted living community in Wilmington, NC offers a wide range of services, including assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, and transportation to doctor’s appointments. 

One of the primary benefits of assisted living is the peace of mind it provides to both you and your spouse. You can rest assured in knowing that your loved one is receiving the care and attention they need. This goes a long way toward alleviating the stress and worries that often come with caregiving. 

Additionally, assisted living can provide a level of independence for your spouse that may not be possible in your home. With trained staff available 24/7, your loved one can have the freedom to participate in activities and engage with others without worrying about safety concerns.

Cedar Cove Provides Help by Caring for Your Elderly Spouse

It’s time you moved out of your role as caretaker and back into your role as a spouse. Instead of putting yourself through the stress of trying to provide a level of care you’re no longer able to, Cedar Cove can give you the peace of mind you need. Let us provide the safe and active environment your loved one needs.

Find out why our residents love living at Cedar Cove. Contact us to schedule a tour. But hurry! Our spaces fill quickly.