“Kindness is a behavior marked by ethical characteristics, a pleasant disposition, and concern and consideration for others. It is considered a virtue, and is recognized as a value in many cultures and religions.” Everyone deserves kindness, especially the most vulnerable populations such as those with disabilities and the elderly. Amid our own hectic lives, we tend to overlook the feelings and needs of others. Practicing kindness comes effortlessly when you become more compassionate and empathetic of others. Whether they are your parent, relative, friend, neighbor, or stranger, here are 5 ways you can show an elderly person kindness, especially during these trying times of a pandemic.
- Manners are free
Having good manners when you are in the presence of an elderly person is an easy way to show kindness. A smile or hello may be little to you, but may be a big deal to them. It shows that they matter and they are not invisible just because they are older. Other ways to show kindness are carrying their heavy bags, pulling out their trash to the curb, helping them cross a busy street, or opening the door for them. - Communicate and listen
Many elderly individuals are lonely, especially if they are widowed and their adult children are busy with their own lives. COVID-19 has made things even worse. Having a conversation with an elderly person will help them decrease their chances of depression, despair, and isolation. Talk to them about current events, ask them for their opinion, or let them do most of the talking while you graciously listen and respond. The human connection is often taken for granted but as we get older it is often one of the things that are yearned for the most. - Food for the soul
Food has such a profound way to evoke positive emotions. The next time you cook a large pot of soup or a big pan of lasagna, why not put a portion to the side and surprise an elderly individual with the gift of food? Not only are you practicing kindness, but you are also practicing selflessness and the act of giving. You might even be doing them a huge favor since many elderly individuals have a difficult time buying and preparing their own meals as they get older – especially if they have mobility issues. - Help around the house
Sparing an hour a week to help tidy the inside or outside of your elderly parent’s or neighbor’s home will be a lifesaver. If an elderly individual has respiratory issues, arthritis, or mobility issues it will be difficult for them to regularly clean the inside of their home or maintain their yard. If the mess and grass are left alone to grow it can become dangerous and increase chances of accidents such as falls. - Caregiving
If your elderly parent or relative needs help to care for themselves and you can volunteer a couple of hours a week during your downtime, then caregiving is one of the kindest acts possible. Making sure they have enough food in their kitchen, their prescriptions filled, and they are safe can increase their overall quality of living. For those unable to spare the time to care for their elderly parent or relative, hiring a professional senior home caregiver is also an ideal choice to make – ensuring they get the attention and care they need plus the peace of mind you deserve.
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