List of Daily Needs for Elderly Care

As we age, we often face additional needs and challenges connected to getting older. If a family member, neighbor, or friend has reached a point where he needs assistance with his daily routine, you'll need to know what those daily needs are. Allow him to be as independent, while respectfully helping him with the tasks that have become difficult.

Mobility

Mobility is important to the elderly, even if it is just within their own surroundings. Make sure they are properly fitted for either a wheelchair, motorized mobility chair, walker or cane. Install a wheelchair ramp, hand rails and wider door wells to make getting around the house hassle-free. A hospital bed, shower chair, lift or tripod bar may assist with getting up from bed or staying safe in the shower.

Transportation

Transportation can be lifesaving to an elderly person. If he can no longer drive, set up transportation so he can get to and from medical appointments and physical therapy. Having a caretaker or assistant who visits on certain days to take an elderly person to run errands, to attend a social function or to go to the doctor is beneficial.

Medication

Senior citizens need proper medication to remain healthy. This begins with adequate medical care, such as doctor's visits, dental care, foot care, eye care, physical therapy and psychiatric therapy, if needed. If they need assistance with taking their pills or giving themselves shots of insulin, a home-health nursing system may need to be added to their daily plan of care.

Personal Care

Personal care is an important daily need for a senior citizen. She may need assistance with bathing, dressing and personal grooming. A home-health aide or other family member can help with these tasks, if necessary.

Nutrition

An elderly person needs proper nutrition to stay healthy and enjoy a comfortable life. Have a nutritionist or caregiver go over a daily meal plan to know what foods best fit that person's lifestyle. Meals can be prepared weekly so it is easier for the senior citizen to heat and eat a warm meal every day. Programs such as Meals on Wheels ensure that an elderly person receives at least one healthy meal daily.