As China enters a deeply aging society, the population aged 60 and above has reached 280 million (2025 data from the National Bureau of Statistics). However, over 48% of families face a “care shortage.” Combining the latest research findings in geriatric medicine, this article provides a systematic elderly care guide to help adult children scientifically safeguard their parents’ health in their later years.
I. Physiological Changes in the Elderly and Key Care Points
1. Polypharmacy Management
Elderly individuals take an average of 6.1 types of medications, which easily lead to adverse reactions:
- Create a medication list (name/dosage/timing)
- Use a pill organizer (7-compartment with reminder function)
- Regularly ask pharmacists to check for drug interactions
2. Fall Prevention System
Falls have become the leading cause of injury-related deaths among adults aged 65 and above:
Environmental Modification:
- Install L-shaped handrails + anti-slip mats in bathrooms
- Install smart motion-sensor lights for nighttime use (illuminance ≥ 50lux)
- Eliminate floor height differences (remove door sills)
Physical Training:
- Tai Chi balance exercises (reduce fall risk by 43%)
- Muscle strength training (focus on lower limb muscle groups)
3. Precise Nutritional Support
| Common Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Dysphagia (swallowing difficulty) | Modify food texture (soft food/pureed meals) |
| Malnutrition | High-protein nutritional supplements |
| Dehydration risk | Timed water-drinking reminders |
II. Elderly Care Plan for Cognitive Impairment
Early Warning Signs for Identification:
- Repeatedly asking the same questions
- Forgetting to turn off stoves/water taps
- Getting lost in familiar places
Cognitive Activation Training:
[Note: Specific training content can be supplemented based on actual needs, e.g., “Memory games using old photos,” “Daily routine recall exercises,” “Simple arithmetic or word puzzles”]
Management of Behavioral Issues:
- Sundowning Syndrome: Increase daytime light exposure (≥ 10,000lux)
- Repetitive Behaviors: Redirect attention + calming music
III. Aging-Friendly Home Modification Checklist
Priority Modification Items:
Bathroom:
- Thermostatic faucets (to prevent scalding)
- Seated shower chairs + handheld showerheads
- Raised toilets (50–55cm in height)
Bedroom:
- Care beds (with back-leg linkage function)
- Bedside rails (to prevent falls)
- Emergency call systems
Public Areas (Living Room, Hallways):
- Barrier-free access routes (slope ≤ 1:12)
- Voice-controlled lighting systems
IV. Self-Protection for Caregivers
Burnout Prevention Measures:
- Establish a “care alliance” (shift system among family members)
- Utilize respite care services (day care centers/temporary care)
- Join caregiver support groups (for psychological counseling)
Legal Preparation:
- Complete advance care directive notarization in advance
- Understand the eligibility criteria for long-term care insurance (now available in 49 cities)
V. Technology-Enabled Care
Smart Monitoring Devices:
- Non-contact breathing monitors (to prevent sudden death)
- Smart wet diaper alarms (alert within 2 minutes)
- GPS positioning shoes (anti-wandering accuracy within 5 meters)
Telemedicine Applications:
- Online consultations with top-tier hospitals (for medication adjustments)
- Wearable health monitors (data directly transmitted to the cloud)
Special Reminder: Elderly Care is not only a technical task but also an art of emotion. Maintaining 15 minutes of high-quality companionship every day—holding your parents’ hands and listening to their stories—is more important than any professional care service.
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