How to care for elderly parents in their home?

To take care of elderly parents is a chance of a lifetime. Thoughtful children want to reciprocate the love and support they receive all these years while dear parents are present to enjoy them. The idea is heartwarming, but it is also a job that is easier said than done when that day comes. It is because almost every grown-up adult has responsibilities to juggle. 

Caring for elderly parents at home

Without a doubt, own residence remains the prime location to take care of elderly parents. Putting them in a nursing home or assisted living facility makes them far from what and who they love. However, it may be an option when the situation becomes stressful to handle for family carers. Why?

First and foremost, it is physically and emotionally draining to provide service almost 24/7. Your drive may still want to do more, but your body may surrender. Secondly, keeping the balance can be a problem with two or even many people in the house. Imagine if a baby and senior parent cry for help at the same time. Who will you prioritize? Another scenario is when you are clueless about what and how to do when your elderly parent is in pain. In practice, a severe injury or chronic illness is not only laborious but also delicate. Expert health aides should manage this.     

The scenarios above are just a few of the many concerns that many family caregivers experience day-to-day. However, knowing these realities is not to discourage but call for concrete caregiving steps and solutions. 

Caregiving steps for family caregivers

It is understandable if the amount and depth of senior care are overwhelming for a concerned carer at home. Nonetheless, remember panicking or stressing out cannot help. It’s taking essential steps like the suggestion below: 

Evaluate you and your elder situation well. Ask and assess questions about the condition of your parents. Does your senior already have mobility or forgetfulness issues? What does your doctor recommend for medication or treatment to maintain for your mother or father? If you can identify the specifics in your situation, the better. 

Next, study how you can provide without compromising your welfare. Can you handle both your work and family life? Are you the breadwinner of your family? How much time of service can you offer in a day or week? How well do you know in things like vital sign monitoring, using apparatus, or stress management?

Check where you can get support for senior care. The first is to know who can physically assist you in caring for your parent. Do you need it for short-term or respite care? It is ideal if you have part-time work or need an occasional break. Is it better if you hire a live-in caregiver to have round-the-clock support? 

The live-in caregiver can provide personal care services for your parents, including light housekeeping or laundry. In that way, you can focus on other senior care essentials like medical checkups or running errands. You may also continue working on weekdays and take charge of caregiving on the weekend.

In addition, be aware also that some institutions can aid you financially. It includes Medicare, Medicaid, and private organizations.