Caring for elderly parents at home is frequently the first step in a senior’s long-term care plan. It not only allows them to remain in the comfort of their own home, but it also allows family members to assess their needs in terms of home care versus facility-based care while saving money. Typically, the responsibility of caring for the elderly at home falls on adult children who are nearing retirement or the sandwich generation, balancing the needs of their children and ageing parents.
Here are ten useful tips to consider if you are caring for elderly parents at home:
- Put your parents’ well-being first: Regular phone calls are a good start, but physical monitoring is required to assess the well-being of seniors living alone. Keep an eye out for signs that they may require additional assistance or care.
- Seek assistance early on: Caring for ageing parents is a significant responsibility that becomes increasingly difficult as their needs grow. Involve everyone in the immediate family, and think about hiring respite care providers or professional in-home care services to help with the workload.
- Make arrangements for respite care: There will be times when you are unable to meet your parent’s needs for a variety of reasons or simply need a break. Working ahead of time with a home care agency allows you to have respite care available when needed.
- Ensure easy-to-prepare meals: Seniors are at risk of malnutrition because it is difficult for them to shop for, prepare, and cook their meals. Regardless of your location, plan nutritious meals that meet their dietary restrictions and are easily accessible.
- Take care of yourself: It is important to prioritise self-care because you cannot effectively care for others if you are not in good health yourself. Find ways to nourish both your body and your spirit, even if it means incorporating small self-care practises into your daily routine.
- Maintain an active and socially engaged lifestyle for your parent: Encourage your parent to maintain an active and socially engaged lifestyle. If you are unable to accompany them to their usual activities, consider hiring a companion or contacting relevant organisations for assistance.
- Make your home safe and accessible: Falls and injuries are major concerns for seniors who live at home. Take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety by making minor changes and seeking assistance as needed.
- Provide safe transport options: For seniors, losing mobility can be a difficult experience. Investigate and investigate the various transport services available to seniors to ensure their safety.
- Understand your financial obligations and your options for assistance: Caring for elderly parents at home may appear financially overwhelming at first, but there are resources and assistance options available. To make informed decisions, learn about financial planning for senior care.
- Consult with local home care agencies: Arrange in-home consultations with local home care agencies to learn about long-term care planning, financial considerations, and helpful carer tips. These consultations are usually free and provide information about potential future help.
- Caring for the elderly at home necessitates a delicate balancing act. Whether you have a hectic schedule or more time to spare, seeking assistance and utilising available resources is critical. These suggestions can help you find balance in your own life while also ensuring the well-being of your ageing parents.