5 Ways To Help a Loved One With a Chronic Health Condition

Publication provided by Melissa Howard of StopSuicide.info | Image via Unsplash.

Shockingly enough, 150 million Americans have at least one chronic health condition, and over 100 million people have more than one. Fortunately, if your loved one is one of these individuals, there are ways you can support them.

Be Present for Doctors’ Appointments

Typically, your loved one should visit their primary care physician (PCP) at least once per year to
monitor their chronic condition and overall health. They may have to visit a specialist once every few weeks or months as well, depending on their condition and its severity. 

Your loved one may receive a great deal of information at these visits, and they may feel stressed during them. When you go along, you can calm their nerves. You may also absorb as much information as you can to assist them in better managing their condition. 

Cook Them Healthy Meals

Diet has a tremendous impact on a person’s health, especially if they have a chronic condition. For
instance, if your loved one has heart disease, a low-fat, high-vegetable diet can help them better manage it. On the other hand, a family member with type 2 diabetes could benefit from eating a diet consisting of healthy, complex carbs rather than simple ones.  

Pick one day a week when you either cook or help them prepare healthy meals for the week ahead. That way, you know they have food easily available that’ll help them better manage their condition. 

Exercise With Them Regularly

No matter what chronic condition your loved one has, exercise can have a positive impact on it. For instance, exercise releases endorphins, which can help your loved one improve their mood. Regular physical activity, including chair exercises, can help your family member manage their weight, which benefits

Listen to Your Loved One

You may feel stressed trying to help your loved one, but imagine what they’re going through. Make sure you’re taking time to listen to their concerns. Use this information to help you better assist them. By actively listening, you might notice signs of a serious issue and can encourage them to get the help they need. 

Earn a Nursing Degree

With a nursing degree, you can better assist your loved one and understand what’s going on with their health. This is a win-win for you and them, especially since the average RN earned $36.22 per hour in 2020. Plus, you’ll be able to help other people. 

Fortunately, you can earn at least some of your nursing degree online, so you can continue to hold a full-time job and address your family obligations. Be careful as you look for a school; make sure the school is accredited and charges competitive tuition rates. 

Be an Advocate and Assistant for Better Health

By assisting your loved one, you can help them achieve better control over their chronic condition and general health. You may even notice an improvement in their quality of life.  

If your loved one has diabetes, visit Diabetics United today for more information.