Senior Care News

Understanding and Respecting Diversity

Caregiver in Carmichael CA

We hear a great deal about celebrating diversity, but it seems that before we can celebrate differences, we need to understand and respect them. But how do we do that? And is it fair to expect our Caregiver-in-Carmichael-CAseniors, for example, to understand things that, at least in some cases, are so different from anything they grew up with or experienced in their younger years?

Let’s not sell them short. Seniors have experienced so much adversity in their lifetimes with the Great Depression, wars and other military conflicts, etc., that they may be able to understand and respect diversity better than people much younger.

As a family caregiver, here are some things you can suggest, or even do with your loved one to appreciate the diversity that exists in our day-to-day lives.

  • Notice the diversity that surrounds you every day of your lives. It might be hearing music from another culture (or even just a different genre), or it could be a foreign restaurant in your community that you’ve never been to. Maybe it’s a neighbor who is of a different race or ethnicity. Whatever it may be, reach out to that which is new and try to experience it.
  • Join a club, organization or local group that embraces and/or celebrates diversity. You could do an Internet search to learn what’s available. Also check out Meetup.org to see what’s available. If none exist, why not consider starting one of your own? It’s a little more work, but may be well worth it in the long-run. Some ideas include a book club that focuses on a different culture in each month’s read; or a cooking or food tasting group where dishes from other cultures are experienced.
  • Research different cultures, religions, etc., on the Internet.
  • Communicate with people from different backgrounds. Our communities are becoming more diverse in their populations, so when you encounter someone who is clearly different, why not strike up a conversation with them? You’ll be surprised how wonderful they might be and how easy it is to communicate, despite the obvious differences.

There is no doubt that through recognizing differences and respecting them, each person can perhaps better embrace and celebrate them. And remember, that sometimes the greatest of changes (like acceptance and understanding) come about through the tiniest of steps.

If you or an aging loved one needs caregiver services in Carmichael, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.

Jay Bloodsworth

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