1. Discuss the Benefits

Many seniors aren’t aware of the negative effects unhealthy habits have on their bodies. Be open and honest when discussing how each bad habit puts your loved one’s health in jeopardy. For example, if your parent smokes cigarettes, explain how this unhealthy habit could increase the risk of a stroke, a heart attack, dementia, and lung cancer. After learning about the benefits of making healthy lifestyle choices, your parent is likely to give up bad habits. 

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2. Acknowledge the Unhealthy Habits & Remove Triggers

Have your loved one compile a list of things he or she wants to change. When your parent is making the list, provide reassurance and motivation. As your loved one acknowledges the unhealthy habits, he or she may recognize and remove the triggers.

3. Find Positive Replacements

After your loved one has learned what triggers the unhealthy habits, he or she needs to find positive ways to manage these issues. For example, instead of going to his or her favorite bakery when stressed out, your loved one could go work out at the local gym. The objective is to develop positive routines that can replace the unhealthy habits in your parent’s life.

Hiring a professional caregiver is a good way to boost your parent’s overall health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Assisting Hands Home Care Dana Point, CA, is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

4. Set Realistic Goals

Bad habits don’t usually develop overnight, and it often takes time to change unhealthy practices. Setting realistic goals may help your loved one make better lifestyle choices. Focus on one habit at a time instead of trying to change everything at once. If your loved one wants to begin eating healthy meals, set time aside each week for meal prep and make sure to have healthy foods and snacks available at all times. Implementing one change at a time can help your loved one gradually move away from unhealthy habits.

5. Practice Acceptance

Making healthy lifestyle choices isn’t always easy, and you may have to encourage your parent to keep going. Older adults who are patient with themselves and accept they’re doing their best have an easier time letting go of unhealthy habits. Instead of using negative phrases and words, seniors need to have a positive outlook as they make big changes. An example of practicing acceptance is saying “I can lose weight if I continue to eat healthy, exercise, and maintain a positive attitude” instead of using phrases like “I’ll never lose weight.”

Encouraging older adults to make healthy lifestyle choices can be a challenging task. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional senior care. Dana Point, CA, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Assisting Hands® Dana Point. Our professional caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. Call us today at (949) 426-7300 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.