Tips On Caring For Aging Parents

Caring for aging parents is a paradoxical task. On the one hand, it's a labor of love and something we willingly, even eagerly, do out of a sense of filial duty. On the other hand, it can be a huge emotional and physical burden. Caring for an aging parent is no small feat, from assisting in managing medication to arranging transportation for doctor's appointments. It requires dedication, time, and a lot of sacrifices that not everyone is prepared to make. If you're amongst the millions of Americans who are caring for an aging parent, you must add these tips to your arsenal:

Closely Monitor Your Parents Well-Being:

Caring for an aging parent may begin with a simple daily phone call to ensure they're eating properly, taking their medications as prescribed, and generally feeling okay.

As your parent ages and their health begins to decline, you may need to increase the frequency of your check-ins or move in with them to provide around-the-clock care.

Most parents may not openly admit when they need help, so it's essential to closely monitor their well-being and be proactive in addressing any issues that arise.

Connect with Their Healthcare Team:

Some critical health conditions like dementia or Alzheimer's can be managed more effectively when family members are involved in the care plan.

You should have a seat at the table during doctor's appointments and be included in all major decisions about your parent's health.

You can also do your research before deciding who gets to be on your parent's healthcare team. Usually, nurses enrolled in online AGACNP programs are more suited to care for elderly patients. It is because they have the relevant qualifications and the required experience.

Make a List of Possible Caregivers

Besides a professional healthcare team, you'll need people to rely on for emotional support and practical help.

If you're your parent's primary caregiver, it's crucial to have a backup plan in case of an emergency. It's okay not to be able to do everything on your own.

Start by making a list of people who can step in to help if you cannot do so. It may include siblings, relatives, close friends, or even paid caregivers.

Be sure to provide them with a copy of your parent's medical information and your contact details in case of an emergency.

Get Organized and Stay on Top of Their Finances:

Financially preparing for your parent's retirement and eventual long-term care needs is amongst the most important things you can do as their caregiver.

Start by getting organized and staying on top of their finances. It includes creating a budget, tracking expenses, and paying bills on time. If the medical expenses exceed the budget, look into long-term care insurance policies or government benefits programs like Medicaid.

You should also have a clear understanding of your parent's estate and how it will be distributed after their death.

Make Their Home Safe and Accessible:

Remember the childproofing you did when your kids were young? It's time to do it again, but with an older adult in mind.

As your parent ages, their home should be safe and accessible to them. It may involve modifications, such as installing handrails in the bathroom, widening doorways, or adding ramps and stairlifts.

You should also declutter your parents' home to reduce the risk of falls and ensure all the appliances are in good working order.

Hire a Full-Time Help:

You may feel "sandwiched" trying to care for both your children and your aging parent. And to top it all, there is your job and other responsibilities to juggle.

At some point, you may need to consider hiring a full-time caregiver to help with the day-to-day care of your parent.

Look for someone who is compassionate, patient, and has experience caring for older adults. They should also be able to prepare meals, administer medications, and help with bathing and grooming.

Encourage Them to Stay Physically Active:

Staying physically active is vital for everyone, but it's critical for older adults. It helps to improve balance and coordination, prevent falls, and boost overall fitness levels.

Most aging adults prefer spending time with family and friends rather than going to the gym. And honestly, that's perfectly fine.

There are many ways to get them moving without making it feel like a chore. You can accompany them on a daily walk around the neighborhood, play catch in the backyard, or dance to their favorite songs. You can also invest in low-impact fitness equipment, like stationary bikes or elliptical machines for them to use at home. However, it's best to consult their doctor before starting any new physical activity.

Make Their Meals Nutritious and Delicious:

Age takes its toll on our bodies, including our sense of taste and smell. As a result, many older adults don't enjoy eating as much as they used to. There are also changes in appetite and metabolism that can lead to weight loss.

That's why it's essential to make their meals nutritious and delicious (so they feel like eating them). Consider their favorite foods and any dietary restrictions they may have. You can also puree their food or cut it into smaller pieces if they have trouble chewing.

In addition to preparing healthy meals, you should encourage them to drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Hydration is essential for good health, especially as we age.

Make Time for Yourself:

Emotional and mental stressors come with caring for an aging parent. Worrying about losing them to feeling guilty about not doing enough can affect your mental health.

So, before you lose yourself in the process, schedule some "me" time. Whether going for a run, taking a yoga class, or reading your favorite book, do something that brings you joy. Also, don't forget to stay connected with friends and family. They can provide much-needed support during this difficult time.

If you ever feel your mental health is deteriorating, please contact a professional for help.

Final Thoughts

A parent-child bond begins from the day we are born, and it only gets stronger as we age. So, when it's time to care for our aging parents, it's only natural to want to do everything possible to ensure they're happy, healthy, and comfortable.

But it's also possible that'll you make some emotional and hasty decisions (all with good intentions, of course) that can misfire. Therefore, taking a step back, assessing the situation, and developing a care plan that works for everyone involved is crucial. You got this!