Confronting Family Health Issues
Chronic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, can interfere with your loved one’s well-being and quality of life.
Unfortunately, an individual with one of these problems may require assistance but may not ask for it. By offering to assist, you can help that person live a better, healthier life.
Helping A Loved One Who’s Battling a Chronic Health Problem
Be Empathetic
Try to put yourself in your loved one’s shoes, so you better understand their situation. If you’re not sure what the person struggles with as a result of their chronic condition, learn.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions to help you better relate. Take some time to research their condition.
The internet has a wealth of reliable health websites that can give you a general overview of the condition and its related challenges, and you can talk to your loved one’s doctor if you have any specific questions.
When you’re empathetic, you also have an easier time determining how to assist that person since you understand more about what they need.
Encourage Them to Exercise
Exercise is beneficial to everyone, especially those with chronic health conditions, but you may need to adjust the physical activity to their situation. As a general rule, the Mayo Clinic recommends people receive a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Perhaps your loved one isn’t exercising because they need encouragement or don’t want to do it alone. You can be their cheerleader and workout buddy.
Arlington, Virginia, is home to Alcova Heights Park and other outdoor and indoor exercise areas that you can visit with your loved one.
Cook Them Healthy Meals
For various reasons, your loved one may not be eating nutritious meals. You may coax them into consuming a better diet by cooking for them.
If you’re unsure of what a healthy diet looks like for someone with their particular condition, ask their physician. Generally, though, prepare meals that consist of low glycemic carbohydrates, low-fat proteins, and nutrient-rich vegetables or fruit.
Help Them With Their Medical Insurance
Medical insurance can be confusing, especially if someone sees one or more specialists regularly and requires medication. You can help by figuring out what their plan covers and what their financial responsibilities are. Answer any questions they may have, and assist them in addressing any issues that crop up.
Further Your Education
Consider earning a nursing degree to learn more about your loved one’s condition and to better help them and others with medical issues. You can also earn a lucrative salary since the average registered nurse in Virginia earns $74,380 annually.
Fortunately, you may earn a nursing degree online, so even if you’re busy with a family, job, or other responsibilities, you can make time for your education. As you search for a school, though, check if it’s accredited.
Additionally, as you compare your options, look for affordable tuition rates. Check out this program: https://www.wgu.edu/online-nursing-health-degrees.html.
The Wrap Up
When you take every possible step to better aid your loved one with their chronic health condition, you have the satisfaction of knowing you’re improving their life, making it worthwhile. If you or your loved one would like help getting fit, check out my consultation services.
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