Older people have needs too

Their emotional needs can vary greatly. They may need freedom from fear, anger, loneliness, anxiety, or guilt. It can also be acceptance of loss, the need for love and affection, or a sense of security and contentment. Veterans’ and War widows face can face unique kinds of needs.

Their psychological needs may include:

  • Freedom from undue stress
  • Feel that they have some control over their lives and make their own decisions
  • Self-esteem, and the other people respect them
  • Personal identity
  • Feel that their knowlege and past achievements are valuable
  • Feel that they belong
  • Accept the realities of their stage of life
  • Control over their personal space
  • To feel safe, especially when they feel vulnerable
  • To feel useful

Spiritual needs may include formal and informal religious observance, need for privacy and an appropriate environment to reflect and/or participate in spiritual activities, and some kinds of ceremonies.

Cultural needs can be dress and dietary observance, ceremonies and festivities, and continued interaction with their community.

Sexuality and identity needs may include:

  • Companionship
  • Love and affection
  • Touch
  • Physical appearance
  • Need for privacy and discretion
  • Access to assistive/protective devices

 

Loss

They may have lost relationships and people significant to them. They could have lost their independence and control. For others it may be their status and possessions, or lost their own place and be moved to somewhere that is not "home". Some simply lose their health. Even if they are not in pain, they are unable to do things that they once could.

Reactions to loss may include shock, emotional release, physical distress, panic, guilt, lack of interest/apathy, and/or hostility/destructive behaviour.

 

Giving support

To communicate and build relationships, you will need to:

  • Be courteous and respectful
  • Be empathetic
  • Be non-judgemental
  • Observe and listen
  • Respect their individual differences

Support networks may include advocates, family members, carers, and friends. It could also be pastors, churches, or support organizations. Other community networks are:

  • Churches
  • Ethnic organizations
  • Clubs
  • Community centres
  • Support groups
  • Sport and recreational groups
  • Community welfare groups
  • Voluntary organisations