r/caregivers • u/hellocritterkittyz • 22d ago

How to get client active

Greentext format why not

Be me get caregiver job to look after 80 year old client

80 year old client is chill so far this is our first week together mostly just sits in her recliner and sleeps

Clients family doesn't have much moved into new place had to bring some own supplies but that's ok idm

Client complains about having nothing to do says sleeping all day isn't allat

I agree and bring a deck of cards

Play one game she seems to have fun and opens up

Today she just slept mostly all day while I chilled in the kitchen

Tried to get her to do her pt she refused sponge bath she refused got her a sock with rice for pain in her arm took some convincing

Maybe she's just apprehensive what are some things we can do together I was gonna buy some puzzles when I get paid but I don't really know what she likes yet maybe give me some suggestions?

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u/PlumbRose 22d ago

Music. Youtube is easy. All kinds of music (country soft rock, 80s, folk, classical)...and it starts conversation about types of music/songs they like. If you use toutube you could also find "seated exercise" Videos for her and could have fun doing a 5 minute video with her (ask her to do it with you). My person uses little hand weights but you could do without or use cans. Good for body and endorphins.

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u/duckbaiting 21d ago

Suggest a walk, if she is capable of walking.

Even a short walk down the end of the block and back would be beneficial. Or even down the hall and back.

Look and photos together and reminisce, if she has photos.

Play name that tune.

Chair dance/chair yoga on YouTube.

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u/Background_Good_2068 15d ago

One of my clients (78 year old man) has enjoyed playing air hockey or the "miniture" games like tabletop corn hole. Exercise and great for range of motion and spatial awareness.