“Go Green” with Your Older Loved Ones
Many environmental endeavours to ‘go green’ are aimed at families and younger individuals, but in a time when money and resources are scarce, it makes sense to include everyone in your conservation efforts.
Carers look after a generation famous for being “green” before the term was even invented. In our grandparent’s day, jeans were patched, socks were darned and cakes were baked – not warmed in a microwave. Many sustainable practices from days gone by are worth returning to, as concerns over climate change prompt immediate action from everyone.
Sustainability is not, and has never been, solely a technological problem. It is a lifestyle issue and the quickest way to win it is to cook from scratch, to buy locally grown vegetables or grow your own, and to purchase meat from traditional butchers that work with small, local farms and producers. Locally sourced produce helps cut down on the environmental waste associated with shipping costs, and simple foods without hormones and chemicals can all be a better choice for all older people.
Recycling is also a great way to get an older parent or loved one involved in acts of environmentalism. It’s not an entirely foreign concept – one recent study found that more than half of married couples over the age of 65 rate a recycling bin as an “essential item” in their homes. Items like glass jars, torn or frayed clothing, or unused wooden furniture can also be reused for simple arts and crafts projects, helping to brighten up the home during the dark days of winter.
Of course, some key caretaking products must be purchased. Adult incontinence supplies are a big issue – billions of used nappies are thrown out each year. As the subject of incontinence is often left out conversations, many people are not aware of the variety of options on the market for them. Instead of purchasing adult pads made from toxic, non-biodegradable materials, try using washable, reusable options which don’t contribute to landfills.
Biodegradable cleaning materials are becoming more widely available, and many carers are turning towards natural biodegradable cleaners, rather than bleach, ammonia or hydrochloric acid. Soap works well against oils. Vinegar battles against fungus. Vinegar with sidekick baking soda can tackle any stain. Using natural cleaning agents reduces water usage and contamination, and keeps you and your older loved one away from potentially harmful chemicals.
Most studies estimate that the average UK citizen uses approximately 150 litres of water per day. A bath typically uses approximately 80 litres, whilst a shower can cut it down to 30. If your older loved one needs help getting in and out of the shower, you can put in a handy grab rail, which can be installed using salvaged or repurposed bathroom pieces. Taking into account the additional needs of someone who is less mobile, also consider installing a taller toilet which meets disability guidelines, but also uses less water with each flush.
For families in the process of transitioning their older relative to an assisted living home, there are many facilities which emphasize eco-friendly and energy efficient habits, such as food composting, green cleaning, and sustainable practices like the use of energy star-rated appliances and solar panels.
Not all green solutions require extra effort. A few do just the opposite. Assistive technology enables carers to monitor their loved ones from afar. Some tools can track dispensing of medications and monitor vital signs. Others can remotely turn appliances, utilities and security systems on and off. These web-connected technologies reduce the amount of time a caregiver spends bouncing to and from homes to check on routine tasks, thereby saving money, fuel and the environment at the same time.
Often, sustainable solutions are evaluated by their returns on investment and payback periods, economic arguments with little meaning to people in their twilight years. But the eco-responsibility movement has no alarm clock. It can start today and pay tomorrow, giving everyone a future to be proud of.
Beth Kelly is a freelance blogger and writer. When she’s not writing, she loves cooking and kayaking. She lives and works in Chicago, IL.
