As we get older, we may find it harder to run the errands that we used to complete with ease. This can be due to several reasons. For instance, if your loved one is unable to drive safely or find it hard to navigate public transport, this can make it hard for them to get where they need to be. Others may require assistance with walking or suffer from social isolation, where they crave companionship and lack the motivation to get out and complete errands.
Read on to find out some ways of making errands easier for your elderly loved ones!
Offer Companionship
Sure, your loved one may require your help getting out of the car or loading groceries. However, what they are really looking for that cannot be quantified is companionship. If possible, offer to spend the day with your loved one when you drive them to their dental appointment or drop them off to get groceries. Along the way, you may discover some of the aspects they are struggling with and determine the best approach to getting them the help they need.
Make Safety a Top Priority
Is it dangerous for your loved one to continue driving due to vision loss or mobility condition? However, they continue to do so because no one is around to drive them about in the day. In order to make errands easier for your loved one, making safety a top priority is of the utmost importance.
If you are not available in the day to drive them where they need to be, consider asking if a neighbor can do so. Otherwise, if your neighbor frequently hops on the public bus to get to the town centre, see if your parent can go along with them.
Engage the Services of a Professional Senior Companion
Family members may not be able to help out during the day because of work commitments. When that’s the case, you may want to consider engaging the services of a professional senior companion. Not only can they go with your loved one to pick up their prescriptions, go grocery shopping or take part in their regular activities, they can also provide companionship along the way.
This will provide you with peace of mind knowing that your loved one is in safe hands without having to miss out on their appointments or the running of their daily errands, just because you are not around!
Make the Move to a Retirement Community That Offers Complimentary Chauffeured Transportation
Another option would be for your loved one to make the move to a retirement community that offers complimentary chauffeured transportation. Regardless of where they need to go and when they need to be there, you can be sure that our professional drivers will get them there on time. Both our assisted living and memory care residents can benefit from this service, allowing them to live a retirement life where their independence is enhanced!
