Have you ever stopped to think about the specific things that make you feel loved and cared for? Is it when you feel heard by another individual? Is it when someone stops to ask how you are, really? How is it with your soul? Do you feel loved when another person goes out of their way to perform an act of service like cooking a meal or intentionally doing something for you that you cannot do on your own? The truth of the matter is that we all feel and experience love a plethora of ways depending on our own individual constitutions and this does not change no matter how old we are. For some, words of affirmation do the trick. Others of us need daily physical touch in the form of a handshake or a hug. Still others prefer notes and simple gifts that show someone else is thinking of us. We each receive and give love via our own personal “love language.” Seniors are no different. When you know how to show affection to the seniors in your life in a way that they grasp it best, everyone is enriched. Here is how to do just that.
Words of Affirmation
For people who have this love language, nothing works better than affirming who they are and the choices they make. If you have a senior who needs to hear that they are valued, by all means, heap on the praise. You will feel good knowing that you have spoken in a way that they can understand. They, in turn, will feel cared for. It is a win-win scenario.
Gifts
For people who have gifts as a love language, they express and receive love through meaningful gifts. This does not have to be an expensive endeavor. Small notes, written cards and letters, little trinkets, and the like all fit the bill.
Acts of Service
People with this love language show their love through acts of service to those around them. They may always try to help you with projects. Perhaps they make sure all the dishes are washed and the laundry is folded. If a senior you love has this love language, simple acts can go a long way for them. Help is always a great way to show that you care.
Quality Time
Do you know someone that would rather spend a few moments talking in depth than anything else? It isn’t what you do that matters to someone who has quality time as their love language but rather doing it with them. Show people with this love language they are cared for by spending one-on-one time with them. You won’t regret it.
Physical Touch
Hugs when you see your elderly loved one, pats on the back to let you know they care, and a firm handshake as a way to show congratulations are all signs that a person has physical touch as their love language. For many, this may be uncomfortable, but for a senior who experiences love through touch, a pat on the knee can speak volumes.
How we show love to everyone, seniors included, should be a mindful experience for both parties. When you know how someone receives love best, you can tailor your experiences with them in a way that shows them that you care. It is an easy way to create and maintain meaningful relationships.
AARP notes that by the year 2035 it is possible that for the very first time in our nation’s history, older adults will outnumber their children. Needless to say, how we care for the aging population is an incredibly important national concern. It is not enough to say that our population is aging; we must all do our part to provide the highest quality health care and support to our valued seniors. This is why we do what we do at Champion Home Health Care. We know that you have choices when it comes to in-home health care in Melbourne, FL. This is the reason we put all of who we are into every patient we serve. From meal preparation and light housework to round-the-clock skilled nursing care services, we treat each patient like a family member with heart, compassion, and professionalism. Contact our Brevard County offices today for more information.
