In adulthood, a person's age doesn't predict their abilities or needs. Some older adults run marathons into their 80s, while others in their 60s have multiple health conditions.
Many older adults live independently, taking care of their own banking, shopping, cooking, home and health. Family and others close to them might:
Discuss plans and priorities with them
Ask about their financial and legal arrangements
Ask how they would want to handle health or other emergencies
Look into local programs and services for older adults
Other older adults live independently, while getting help with cleaning, managing medications, transportation or other tasks. Family and others close to them might:
Help arrange for in-home services and delivery of groceries, meals or medications
Look into devices, tools or home modifications that make tasks easier
Discuss health and housing plans
Ask who they would want to help them with health, decision making, financial management or transportation, if needed
Some older adults live with injuries, chronic conditions or pain and need help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing and eating. Family and others close to them might:
Help with daily needs, transportation, health or other tasks
Arrange for personal care or home health services
Work together and with health professionals to address concerns
Discuss more supportive housing options
Older adults who are physically frail, seriously ill or nearing the end of life often need intensive personal and nursing care. Family and others close to them might:
Discuss health and priorities with them and their health professionals
Ask what care they do and do not want, towards the end of life
Help with any housing changes, or financial or legal decisions
Arrange palliative or hospice care to manage pain and provide support
Talk through any relationship issues, like anger and resentment