It is a fact of life, from the moment we are born, we start getting older and if we are lucky enough to live to an old age, it is likely we may come to a point where we can no longer care properly for ourselves and we may need some extra support. And yet this is something none of us want to admit or even think about, but if we are all going to need it, why is there such a stigma around elderly care and what can we do to change future perspective?
Perhaps, by thinking negatively about getting old and frail and not being able to look after ourselves we are the problem. Constantly in the media and movies, people in older age are depicted negatively, whether it’s as a burden to the family, or someone who is unable to look after themselves, the older generations do not get painted in a good light. And yet so many of us are staying healthy and active into our older years and nothing like the old frail image portrayed by the media.
And so, if we focussed on positivity and promoting healthy living and wellbeing, using positive images of those in their older years enjoying independence and living life to the full, perhaps we would be able to adjust the perception of getting old.
And yes, there may come a time when we need a bit of extra support to look after ourselves. And this is where the care industry needs to step up. Treating each person as an individual, supporting their needs and wishes and getting to know them will help to ensure they are cared for in a compassionate and dignified manner.
We continue to promote person-centred care and maintaining independence in our home. We want all our residents to feel like they are at home, not in a stereotypical care home or “God’s Waiting Room” as they are so crassly referred to at times. We create a family home environment by including our team in the daily activities and entertainment. We also find activities and outings that are personal to our residents, for example we have one resident who used to be a boxing promoter so we take him to the local boxing gym. Another resident has given us tennis lessons while others enjoy a trip to M&S.
Getting old doesn’t have to be a sad and lonely time and we feel each of us plays our own part in removing the stigma around elderly care – come and see for yourself – our warm and friendly home will hopefully change your perspective on how growing old should be!