If you’re wondering how to take care of an aging parent, you’re not alone. By 2035, experts predict there will be more seniors than children in America!
Caring for the elderly isn’t for the faint of heart. No matter how much you love your parent, you have a lot of hard work and important (and potentially difficult) decisions ahead of you.
Here are four tips to make your task of caring for your elderly parent easier for you — and for them.
1. Embrace Honest Communication
The challenges of aging aren’t easy for you or your parent to deal with. They may fear losing their autonomy or becoming a burden, while you need to juggle their care with your own career and family responsibilities.
Set yourselves up for success by having an open, honest conversation. Share your concerns, fears, and anxieties, and encourage them to share theirs. Make sure they understand that you want to be there to help, not to take over their life with your own agenda.
2. Set Appropriate Boundaries
As much as possible, allow your aging parent to maintain their independence. Do tasks alongside them instead of for them, even if it takes longer than usual. In the long run, this will help them to maintain a healthy body and mind.
Rather than swooping in at every opportunity, allow your parent to ask you when they need help. Keep in mind that their version of “asking” might involve sharing fears or frustrations rather than an outright plea for assistance.
Above all, be respectful, patient, and compassionate. Your elderly parent is still your parent and they deserve dignity and respect — regardless of their physical or mental condition.
3. Prioritize Safety & Wellbeing
Whether your parent is living in their own home, moving in with you, or transitioning to a senior living facility, their safety needs to be your top priority. This might include things like:
- Installing grab bars in the bathroom
- Removing rugs, cords, and other trip hazards
- Placing appliances and everyday items within easy reach
- Using a wearable medical alert device
If you haven’t already, this is also the time to make sure their finances are in order. Seniors often need help keeping track of and paying for bills, insurance, and medical care. It’s also a good idea to see if there are any government programs or tax incentives they qualify for.
4. Admit When You Need Help
Hopefully, your aging parent will remain in good health for many years to come.
Eventually, though, you could be faced with a new reality. As their condition declines, independent living may no longer be possible (or safe). You may also begin to struggle with caregiver burnout if you try to do too much on your own.
You might need to consider bringing in the help of a nurse or home health aide. Or you may need to consider making the transition to an assisted living facility. You can browse some senior living floor plans to start getting an idea of what’s available and which options make the most sense for your family’s circumstances.
The Best Care for Your Aging Parent
Caring for an elderly parent is no easy task. It takes patience, compassion, and a lot of hard work. Use the tips listed above to ensure your aging parent receives the best possible care!
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