According to the University of California’s Berkeley Wellness newsletter, “nearly all people experience some form of cognitive decline later in life.” Cognitive decline can cause memory impairment and loss of the ability to reason.
This may explain why elderly parents or other loved ones can become increasingly stubborn as they age. Of course, older people can become stubborn for a variety of other reasons as well—like simply being set in their ways. That stubbornness can do more than cause caregiver frustration, however. In certain situations, it can even lead to non-compliance with doctor’s orders. In fact, a study conducted for the Prevent Senior HospitalizationsSM program by Home Instead, Inc., franchisor of the Home Instead Senior Care® network, cited unwillingness to change as a top cause for not following doctors’ orders.
So how can you overcome your loved one’s constant refrain of “no”? Try these practical tips to gain cooperation and reduce your feelings of caregiver stress. [Read more…]
