How do you juggle caring for children and caring for aging parents? You’re far from alone if you’ve found yourself in this predicament.
Over 16.9 percent of people in the U.S. are over 65. It’s a fact that few families are prepared for. Even those with aging parents in the home may want to prepare for the future.
It is essential to know how to provide your aging parents with the best care in their golden years. We’ll look at five tips to make your parents’ aging experience as pleasant as possible.
1. Communicate With Your Parents Regularly
To maintain a good relationship with your aging parents, you must communicate regularly. This can be challenging because they may not be able to communicate as well as they used to.
Be patient and listen more than you talk. Take the time to hear their wishes and preferences for care as they age. Discuss any concerns they have and decide on a plan together.
2. Help Them to Stay Active and Engaged
Whether taking a walk together, dancing around the living room or playing a game of catch, staying active will help them stay healthy and independent for longer.
Find activities that they enjoy and that you can do together. This can help prevent boredom and isolation, which are common issues for older adults. Activities include playing cards, going to the library, or working on a jigsaw puzzle.
Whatever you do, make sure it’s something that your parents can look forward to, and that brings them joy.
3. Put Together a Network of Support
This includes friends, family, neighbors, and even professional caregivers. Having a support system in place can help you manage the demands of elderly care and give you a break when you need it.
Talk to your family and friends about your elderly parents. They can be a great source of support and help. Ask them for help with tasks such as errands and doctor’s appointments.
Look into hiring professional caregivers to supplement your caregiving. But make sure to stay connected with your friends and family support system.
Utilize community resources such as senior centers, adult day care, and home health care services.
4. Help With Their Finances
Review their budget with them and help them plan. This will help them keep track of their spending and ensure they are not overspending.
Help them to reduce their expenses. This may mean helping them find cheaper ways to get the things they need or helping them to cut back on unnecessary costs.
5. Prepare for the Future
Make sure they are getting the medical care they need. This includes regular doctor visits, screenings, skilled rehab services, and immunizations. You can also help by keeping track of their medications and taking them as prescribed.
Make sure they have all the information they need. This includes their medical records, power of attorney, and advance directives.
Caring for Aging Parents Is Caring for Family
Even though caring for aging parents can be difficult, these great tips can make the process easier. These include communicating with your parents, supporting them, planning for their future, and ensuring their needs are met.
These tips can help make the experience more favorable for you and your parents.
As you look for ways to improve your quality of life, rely on the up-to-date information in our blog. Explore other helpful resources on health, lifestyle, and more.
