Statistics show that 36% of family caregivers end up caring for their aging parents. It also shows that 7 out of 10 caregivers care for a loved one over 50.
Caring for aging parents can be very difficult, especially in the beginning. Knowing where to start and how to prepare for this life change can take time.
There are several steps that you can take to make this adjustment easier. It is easier for yourself and your elderly parents during this process.
Keep reading to find helpful tips for caring for aging parents.
1. Know When to Step In
One of the most essential things about elderly care is knowing when to step in. It can be hard to make this decision, but it is often required.
Once your parents begin to get elderly, keeping an eye on them is essential. You should regularly check up on them and ensure they have everything they need.
The more involved in their life you are, the easier it will be to know when they need more assistance. Often, the first thing to go is their ability to drive themselves.
After that, they may eventually reach the point where they cannot live alone. When this happens, you must act fast and know what to do.
You should already have a plan when you notice them needing more care. These signs often include an inability to care for themselves or problems remembering their medication.
There are all kinds of signs that you will notice when they need more help. Eventually, they will get to the point where they can no longer live independently and safely. For this reason, it is best to seek the assistance of a CDPAP Agency. With the Agency's support and resources, you will be able to navigate the challenges of elderly care and make informed decisions for the benefit of your loved ones.
2. Provide Living Arrangements
If your elderly parents get to the point where they can't live alone, you will need to make arrangements. Most people choose to take care of their parents in their own homes.
This will depend on how much care your parents need and their health issues. Those with signs of dementia will require much more work on your part.
Parents with trouble walking or health issues will also be a more significant commitment. These are things that you should consider before making the decision on their living arrangements.
You will also need to figure out what to do with their home. This will depend on whether they own or rent the house, which will determine what you need to do next.
You may need to look into assisted living homes if such care is required. These homes cater to all levels of elderly care and are the best option in some instances.
3. Understand What's Needed
When caring for aging parents, you need to evaluate what they need. You won't be able to care for them properly unless you understand this detail.
You will already know the kind of care they need. This usually includes driving to doctor's appointments, cooking, and making sure they take their pills.
They may also need help bathing or assistance when walking around. It will depend on their age and how good or bad their health is.
You can schedule a doctor's appointment to understand their health. Their doctor will be able to give you a better idea of the care that they need.
4. Plan Activities
While it is essential to care for elderly parents regarding their needs, activities are also important. You can provide everything that they need without really caring for them.
Like anyone else, those who are elderly also need activity and stimulation. In fact, these are things that are going to help them to stay young and in good shape.
You should plan outings to get them out of the house and walk around if they can. If this is too difficult, you can plan game nights or other fun activities to keep them busy.
5. Hire Help
If caring for aging parents feels overwhelming, there are ways to make this easier. There are options like compassionate companion care that provide in-home assistance.
This option can be utilized even if your parents still live independently. This can be a great way to prolong their independence before they move in with you or into a facility.
An in-home companion offers emotional support and someone to do things with. They are also there for practical reasons, such as driving and running errands.
They can help your parents to do things they can no longer do themselves. They provide the comfort of a companion while offering plenty of care options.
6. Make Your Home Safe
If you bring your elderly parents home to take care of them, you must make the environment safe. Your parents may have specific health concerns that need to be prioritized.
Those who have trouble walking will need a clean and clear environment. You may need to make ramps or add banisters so that they can safely move around.
If your parent shows signs of dementia, you may need to baby-proof you are home. This may include gating off certain areas or hiding their medications.
Tips for Caring for Aging Parents
If you are going to start caring for aging parents, there are certain things to be aware of. These tips can help this transition to be less stressful and intimidating.
Do you need more information on caring for elderly parents? Check out our other helpful articles on elderly care.
