Caregivers must understand the reality of ergonomics, fragile bones, and old age obviously and but there is a lot more to it. You see, the psyche and sense of independence is also very important for an older person's self esteem - if they feel incapable or unable to do things for themselves and by themselves they get depressed; wouldn't you?

Putting up handles in the bathrooms, a safety stool in the shower and easier to turn OFF and ON light switches does not generally cause problems, and those are easy and inexpensive things to do and which make a huge difference. Ergonomic assistance is not only for these things it is also needed for other simple items like kitchen utensils, opening jars, pouring bottles and reaching top shelves for pots and pans.

If an older senior has to rely ON the caregiver for little things, things they cannot do themselves or things which they can barely do themselves and then they feel helpless. It is okay for an elder senior to make their own meal, even if it takes them a long time if they truly want to, as it gives them self satisfaction and a sense of decency and makes them feel independent. Please do not take this away from them unless it becomes a serious safety issue.

Rather, think about the ergonomics of things and opening bottles or can opener systems. Put devices that help assist them and change out the handles to more ergonomic systems to make their job easier. This is where you should be thinking and as it really is paramount that the caregiver have a good understanding of these things and that they grasp the concepts and reality behind ergonomic research. Think ON this.