Americans are living longer, which can be a good thing, but it also means that they may require assistance for a longer period of time. Many seniors prefer to age in place for as long as possible, and with the right supports, this can be a quite feasible. Oftentimes, these supports come in the form of family caregivers — adult children caring for aging parents.
However, many of these caregivers also have children of their own they are raising, in addition to careers and other obligations. They are often referred to as the Sandwich Generation, split between tending to the young and old alike. Caring for their family and their senior parents can be demanding.
And as their parents continuing aging, they may require increasing levels of care. It is important to think about not just what they need in the present, but what type of care they will need in the future as well.
Planning Ahead
Balancing obligations to improve safety and reduce burnout is essential. It’s not too early to have critical conversations with your parents.
— Discuss future wishes. What does your aging parent envision for their future? Where do they want to live? What type of end-of-life care do they want?
— Put legal documents in place. While they are still of sound mind, work together to create a power of attorney, will, medical directives, financial plans, and other key documents that will be necessary as they get older.
— Make home improvements. Install better lighting, grab bars, ramps, or a walk-in shower. Add technology such as a programmable thermostat or video doorbell. Start making changes now that will benefit them in the future.
Ask for Help
Talk to your family about sharing the responsibility of caring for aging parents. Are others available to help with tasks around their home, taking them to appointments, or spending time visiting? Don’t feel the need to take all of this on yourself, especially when you are trying to provide for your own family as well. Stretching yourself too thin helps no one.
You can coordinate care for the days or times they most need it, allowing them to continue remaining as independent as possible. A non-medical caregiver can assist with a wide range of activities such as:
— Wake up/bedtime routines
— Meal planning and preparation
— Light housekeeping
— Escorting on errands/outings
— Scheduling appointments
— Providing medication reminders
— Playing cards/games
— Providing companionship and conversation
You can feel confident that your senior is receiving the level of support they need, when they need it. As their needs change, you can adjust the frequency and type of services they receive to match. An in-home care provider can become an incredible resource for your parents as they age in place.
Information provided by Always Best Care. Always Best Care is a non-medical homecare services provider allowing people to continue their independence and enjoy their daily routines in their home with familiar surroundings. To set up an appointment for a no obligation in-home consultation call 330-385-5960. (Submitted)
