Good news: Since 1970, American life expectancy has increased by a little over 8 years.
This means your parents will likely live longer and healthier lives than their predecessors. You’ll get to spend more time with them, but you’ll also spend more time caring for seniors.
As adult children, you want to give your aging parents the same love and care they gave us growing up. So, how do give them the best elder care you can? Stay on top of your parents’ needs with these helpful tips.
Establish Open Communication With Your Parents
Keep communication lines open. This is the most obvious and important way to ensure seniors get their needs met.
Parents don’t want to feel like a burden so may not always express their wants. Be sure to ask them about any changes that might help in the home.
Would they prefer a meal service delivered to them to make dinners easier? Ask them about their day and be available to answer phone calls when possible.
Prevent Loneliness in Seniors
Isolation can cause long term mental health issues and shorten lifespans. Parents who live alone will need a strong social support system.
If your aging parent seems down, sullen, or moody, look into possible social activities for him or her to join. See if they want to enroll in a day program or volunteer for a charity.
Pay Attention To Changing Medical Needs
As your parents grow older their medical needs will increase. They might develop chronic illnesses or have more trouble moving around the home.
Help aging parents keep up with appointments and take medications. Consult with your parent’s doctor to stay on top of healthcare needs. Medical professionals can help you and your loved one with living modifications that make the aging process easier.
Assess Home Safety and Accessibility
Have personal hygiene activities become more difficult for senior parents? Do tricky stairs and heavy chairs cause you to worry about accidents when you’re not around?
A small fall can be lethal for seniors. You can help parents make low-cost modifications like installing bathroom grab-bars and adding night lights.
Look Into More Extensive Care
You don’t need to feel guilty to ask for help.
Sometimes, you can’t do it all on your own. As your parents get older and need more intensive care, you may not have the time or funds to take care of them by yourself.
Taking on too much can hurt your own mental and physical health. Look into aging life care options for professional caregivers that can help your parents around the home.
Make Sure Your Parents Get the Elder Care They Deserve
You love your parents and want to make sure they get the best care possible in their old age.
You may not always know how to provide for your aging loved one’s changing needs. Or, how to do so without imposing on their independence. By consulting with medical professionals and having honest conversations with your senior parents, you can find the best care solutions for them.
Enjoy these elder care tips? Check out the rest of our blog for more health advice!