Many older adults don’t require much from others. They are usually quite busy helping others and positively contributing to their communities, families, and workplaces. However, they will eventually need your help if they live up to their 80s or even 90s. During this time, the assistance might come from any family member; it could be the spouse, siblings, adult kids, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren.
Taking Care of Your Elderly Parents
Sometimes, it can be stress-free to care for your aging parents. All they need is a little assistance in household chores and shopping. However, in some cases, taking care of your parents can be challenging. This is especially true if they have health issues that affect their capability to remain independent and handle their specific aspects of life. Here are some of the things you should address when taking care of your aging parents:
Safety
Determining whether your home is safe is an essential factor. But before you go any further, why have you decided to take in your aging parents? Is it because of something that happened at their residential nursing home? If yes, get the help of a nursing home abuse attorney. Make your home age-friendly. Get rid of all fall hazards, protect against fire, always have an emergency number and ensure that the bathroom is safe. The stairs, kitchen, and bedroom should also be safe.
Financial Contributions
Moving an aging parent into your home can be financially draining, especially when they have some health conditions. You can consider having some members of the family help contribute to buying food and household materials. Some of them could pay the rent or pay for the small renovations you will have to make to ensure the safety of your aging parent(s).
Alternatively, you can check to see if your parents are eligible for government programs that help offset their living expenses. Many states have a Cash and Counseling program in place aimed to help the elderly. The program allows the parents to hire a caregiver, which can include their family members.
Medical and Health Problems
Medical issues are usually common in old age. Most seniors have chronic conditions. This means that they will need medication, monitoring, and some other forms of continuing management.
Self-care
As much as helping your aging parents can be rewarding, it can quickly become a source of chronic stress. At many times, family caregivers tend to be very busy and neglect their personal needs and welfare. This can impact their health and affect their ability to care for their parents.
Many different self-care approaches can help keep you manageable. You can join a support group, set boundaries, ask for help, and set some time aside to tend to your personal needs.
Bottom Line
When taking care of your aging parents, it is always a good idea to allow your children to bond with their grandparents. Modern technology might have some advantages; however, no technology can amount to an in-person visit. Ensure that their home is age-friendly, and consider hiring a caregiver if you are too busy.
