Vision loss is difficult for seniors. As the years go by, they may start to lose the ability to do the things they’ve always done, simply because they can’t see well enough to do those activities. The most common causes of poor eyesight in elderly adults are macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataract and glaucoma; however, no matter the reason, the result can be the same: feelings of frustration and depression due to decreased independence.
Fortunately, there are ways for you and your elderly loved one’s caregiver to ease this challenge. Use these five techniques to help your loved one navigate the world with greater ease and comfort despite a loss of vision.
Face Them While You’re Speaking
Facing a senior with vision loss helps them hear you more clearly and identify where you are in the room. Listen attentively and offer verbal cues to indicate your involvement in the conversation. You’ll also want to be clear about ending a conversation or leaving the room, so the person doesn’t keep talking while you’re not there to listen.
Let Them Set the Pace
While walking with a vision-impaired senior, match their pace to avoid accidentally pushing or pulling. It can be difficult for the elderly to maintain balance, anyway; with poor eyesight this becomes even more challenging. If you accidentally encourage them to move a step too fast or too slow, it can disrupt their balance and cause a fall; it may also cause anxiety if they are placing their feet before they feel comfortable and ready for each step.
Explain Loud Noises
We may hear a strange noise and see a dog across the street; we know the dog was barking or howling. However, sometimes a bark doesn’t sound like a bark at all, especially if you don’t have the visual cue to know where the sound came from. Screeching tires, backfiring cars, animal noises, and falling objects can be difficult to identify without seeing where the sounds originated. Without that visual context, the sounds can be alarming or even frightening. Therefore, it’s helpful if you simply explain the noises: “Wow, that’s a big dog! He looks like a bear” or “Those construction workers just knocked down an entire wall!” gives context to the sudden noise.
Describe What’s Happening
Every moment is full of little pleasures, and your elderly loved one may miss a lot of them if they can’t see them. Take some time to talk about what you’re seeing in front of you. If you’re at an event, like a graduation, this might mean a little play-by-play of what’s happening on stage and how your graduate looks in his gown. If you’re walking down the street, you might like to point out a unique car, an especially beautiful house or landscaped yard, or the kids who are skateboarding in the park.
Let Them Hold Your Arm
Even a small degree of vision loss can dampen his confidence about getting around safely. While walking with your loved one, hold their arm or allow them to hold yours so you can help guide them. Not only will this improve their confidence (they know you won’t run into anything!), it also helps them feel more stable and balanced.
If you need help caring for an elderly loved one with poor eyesight, we’re here for you. Elderlink Home Care, Inc. has served the Denver area for 30 years with a commitment to high-quality home care. Our compassionate staff is dedicated to creating a high quality of life for your senior in the comfort of his or her home. For more information about Elderlink Home Care, Inc.’s services, contact us. We’ll work with you to develop the right care plan for your loved one.