You have relatives who are either disabled or getting old. With their conditions, you’ve seen how their lives became complicated and oftentimes, too stressful. They always need the help from others to get around the house. And at times, they’d feel depressed because of the lack of things they can do now. All of these things have also affected you negatively. Of course, you don’t want to see your relatives be this way. As much as possible, you want them to be happy and fulfilled all the time – and when they’re healthy, they can do just that! When your relatives’ health is optimal, they can do anything they want which could lead them to live a more enjoyable life.
Seeing your relatives or anyone you know, suffer from disability or age, can be heartbreaking.
Even if you’re not the one experiencing these struggles, it can have an impact on how you live your own life. You can alleviate their conditions by helping them stay healthy even when they’re disabled or old. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Find time to walk: 
Walking is a very simple exercise anyone can do anytime, anywhere. If your relative has trouble walking alone, have them use mobility aids or assist them during their walking sessions. They can walk around the neighborhood early in the morning or late in the evening – anytime as long as it’s convenient to them! You can have them walk for 10 minutes a day, 15 minutes the next and 30 minutes after a week. Just make sure that they don’t jump to an hour of walking immediately. They should start slow and gradually increase pace and time.
2. Consider water aerobics:
If your relative wants fun and exercise at the same time, water aerobics might do the trick for them. Water aerobics is a great option for disabled persons as the buoyancy of the water will help them balance better. It can also increase their flexibility and expands their range of their movement.
3. Stay consistent:
Regardless of what activity a disabled or elderly person chooses, they must be consistent with their efforts. They shouldn’t expect that just because they’re physically active once a week, they can already be healthy. They should pour in time and efforts so they can experience the benefits of exercising long-term.
4. Practice healthy eating habits:
Along with exercises, healthy eating habits also make up for a disabled or elderly person to be healthy. This will give someone the energy they need which can pave the way for their recovery. Since you’re willing to help relatives, assist them in preparing healthy meals that are balance and nutritious. Discourage them from eating junk foods and add fruits and vegetables to their diet instead.
5. Be there for them:
Some people often neglect the importance of support for someone who is disabled or elderly – make sure that you don’t commit this mistake towards your relatives. This is one of the reasons why the disabled and elderly end up feeling depressed and isolated. With all of their attempts to be healthy, be there for them. Provide the support they need and never think less of them. Include them in all family activities and always be available when they need someone to talk to.
6. Help them become socially active:
Aside from the support you give them, it’s also essential that the disabled and elderly are given the chance to mingle with their friends as well. This will be an avenue for them to express their emotions, rather than keeping everything to themselves. This will do wonders for their mental health!
7. Get quality sleep and rest:
Sleep is an ingredient to live a healthy life. As you age, you’ll need more sleep – this is why for your elderly relatives, they should be able to sleep at least eight hours every night. This will allow their body to recharge and have energy again for tomorrow. If they don’t, they’ll be at risk of experiencing memory problems, depression and irritability.
8. Introduce them to a hobby:
When they were younger, for sure, your relatives had a hobby which they love doing. This can either be doing DIY projects, knitting or baking. Assist them to do any of these during their free time. This will be a very good avenue for them to de-stress while keeping their mind sharp.
The Bottom Line
Anyone who has a disability or is old shouldn’t be hindered to do any activities that they love. Things might be challenging for them, but when they’re healthy, they’ll be motivated to do more. Keep in mind the points from this article and gradually implement it to a relative’s lifestyle. You’ll be surprised how your aid can help them become happier and live healthily in the long run!
Carol Gibbins
Carol Gibbins believes in the power of writing to be able to touch the hearts and minds of readers, and this is exactly what motivates her to pursue a career as a blogger and contributor for sites such as Disability Friendly. Her penchant to write pieces with a unique and creative flair has allowed her to both entertain and inform her readers on various issues and topics related to healthcare and medicine.