The effects of aging can sometimes be devastating on a senior's self esteem, but they can often be avoided with a little planning and commitment.   There are many positive actions  seniors, their families and  caregivers can take which can make the later years not only positive and happy but also fulfilling.

1. Help the aging senior to grow a new sense of purpose and accomplishment

This may take some creativity, especially if the elderly person is disabled, but it is important that she gain new interests and hobbies that she can get involved in.  Also  many old hobbies, which may have been abandoned because of work and family responsibilities, can be rekindled.

Did your mom like art?  Get her into an art class if she is still able to attend.  If she is homebound bring in art videos and books that she can look at and help her enjoy them.

Does your dad like golf?  If he is unable to play, watch a golf  tournament with him on TV.  Can he still putt?  Bring in an indoor putter or golf game  he can practice with.  Not only will this keep him occupied but it can help improve his coordination.  Experts have plenty of evidence that such activities can also help  prevent  future falls.

2. Get the aging senior involved with others socially

Isolation is not only depressing, it's dangerous.  Encourage your  parent to go on outings with others, even if that involves only going down the hall to a meeting room where he can interact with others. 

I used to visit an Alzheimer's patient and I was amazed at the lengths  the nursing home went to in order to get all the dementia patients to interact with each other.  They sat together in a large room, and although none could talk or communicate, I sensed they found comfort in just  being  together.  This is a basic human need on all levels.

3. Never talk down to an elderly person

This is a big problem in our society because the elderly and our seniors are not always as well  respected  as they should be.

You can change that problem into something positive if you keep the senior's feelings in mind while you work with her or him.   A condescending attitude will rankle anyone, especially the elderly.

Even if your mom insists on washing the dishes when you know it would be far easier to throw them into the dishwasher, let her.  If she doesn't get them completely clean, you can always go back and put them through the dishwasher later. 

What is important is that you have allowed her the chance to be productive at something at which  she can  fulfill a task.

4. Allow the senior person to mentor you

Unless the aging senior suffers from total dementia, he will have lots of time to talk.  Get him engaged in open meaningful conversation.  Ask his opinions.  Be attentive.  After all, any elderly person has had a tremendous amount of experience and has weathered many storms.  Give him the opportunity to share his wisdom.  This helps him feel appreciated for his past accomplishments, and an added bonus is you might learn something new.

5. Help the aging senior to take control of his health as much as possible

Encourage the elderly person to learn more about his physical condition.  This will give him a sense of empowerment at a time in his life when he feels like he is probably losing control. 

Exercise is another way he can improve his physical condition.  If the doctor recommends walking, get out and walk with him.  How about gardening?  If he can do simple gardening tasks help him grow something.  This gets him involved in physical activities and also keeps him setting goals he can reasonably reach.

Instead of watching aging seniors digress with lower self esteem, we can work with them to build up their sense of well being.  This will not only help them to live longer more fulfilled lives, but it can enrich everyone who lives and works around them.   

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