How do you help someone manage a chronic condition? There are many answers to that question, but only a couple that will apply to your loved one’s specific needs. Some individuals require help with daily activities, while others simply need someone to listen to them or advocate on their behalf with healthcare providers. The best way to get started is to talk to your loved one and find out what their current needs are. Then, work with them to create a routine or schedule that works for both of you. There are often no easy answers when it comes to helping someone with a chronic illness, but you can find guidance for several wellness issues at Spirit Self Health. You can also learn more about your loved one’s specific condition in order to better help them.
Go back to school
There are often so many aspects to a single chronic illness that it can easily become overwhelming to learn about causes, triggers, and treatments. You can learn more about what your loved one is going through–and how to help them–by going back to school and earning a nursing degree. Not only will this help you become well-versed in ways to assist them with coping, but it will also give you peace of mind in the event that they require daily care. There are several online degree options available these days, making it easier than ever to learn on your own time. Just make sure the school you choose is accredited and offers competitive tuition rates before you sign up for a program.
Make their home more accessible
Once you know all about your loved one’s condition, you can make informed decisions on the types of home modifications that will make their life easier. Many people who are living with an illness have mobility issues, so installing ramps, keeping the floor plan as open as possible, and replacing the bathtub with a step-less shower are a few great changes that can be made to the home. For someone who is living with chronic pain from a condition like arthritis, eliminating the need to bend, removing trip hazards, and installing levers instead of doorknobs are a few examples of helpful modifications.
Help prepare for a move
If your loved one’s home simply isn’t sustainable even with changes, it’s a good idea to start helping them prepare for a move. Downsizing is a popular option for those who live in a large space, and it can help save money as well as offer safety. Moving day can be overwhelming for individuals who are living with a chronic condition, so anything you can do to take over the planning stages will be helpful. This includes finding and hiring movers, so before you request a quote, look online at customer reviews and ask for a written estimate. Most legitimate moving companies will set up an in-home inspection before providing a price.
Help them stay connected
Whether your loved one decides to move or stay in place, it’s a good idea to help them remain connected to their friends and family members. Living with a chronic condition can be extremely isolating, either because the individual isn’t able to get out and join others at events and gatherings or because their illness is misunderstood. Look for ways you can help your loved one keep in touch, including using social media or utilizing a video chat service. You can also provide rides if your loved one doesn’t drive.
Helping someone get through the pain, frustration, and stress of living with a chronic health condition can be tricky, so it’s crucial to learn all you can about their specific needs and ask for their consent before making any changes to their environment.
Author -Diane Harrison
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