It may have started informally, with a little support here and there. Picking up a couple of things from the store for your aging parent. Dropping off the extra pan of lasagna you made while preparing your own family’s dinner. Or simply just spending a bit longer visiting to make sure things are ok.
Now, you may be discovering that more care is becoming necessary. Think you’re up to the challenge of serving as a caregiver for elderly parents?
A caregiver’s role is very fulfilling. It also includes a significant amount of responsibility, which may feel overwhelming. These strategies can help you make sure the bases are covered in looking after a loved one. Contact At-Home Care Company at 515-292-2650 if you think you could use the help of our compassionate caregivers.
Safety
There are two main components to safety for seniors:
- Home Security: Strengthen the safety of the senior’s home by installing a peep hole in the door and locks that are both sturdy and simple for the senior to utilize. It’s also a smart idea to remove the senior’s name from the mailbox to stop con artists from trying to get access by pretending to know the senior. There should be plenty of exterior lighting. Use motion-detection sensors that turn lights on when triggered.
- Fall Prevention: Older adult falls can be devastating. Prevent falls by removing throw rugs and other tripping hazards, installing secure handrails and grab bars, and clearing away all clutter and low furniture in the senior’s walking paths.
Finances
If the older adult is challenged by cognitive impairment, like dementia, it is extremely important to assist with money management. But, in any situation, it is best if you collaborate with your aging parent to review bills, bank accounts, insurance plans, etc. to make certain that, if the time comes that you need to take over these tasks, you are fully prepared.
Companionship
Spending social time with a loved one is a very important component to caregiving. While sharing a cup of coffee and chatting may just be an everyday occurrence for you, for a lonely senior, it may mean the world. Make sure not to let all the essential tasks overshadow the need to simply enjoy quality time with each other.
Health
Tending to a senior’s well-being involves ensuring physical exercise, healthy eating and sleep habits, and proper medication management. Participating in healthy lifestyle choices together is a great way to avoid the sense of being overbearing or parenting your parent. Sign up together for a workout, swimming, or dance class. Check out new recipes together. Pick up a pill organizer, if the senior is not already using one, so medications are taken just as directed. If the senior agrees with the idea, attending doctors’ appointments together can help make sure that all questions are answered and suggestions are understood.
How Senior Care Can Help
Finding a care partner is a must for both your parent’s health and your own. No one can be expected to manage all of the care needs required themselves. At-Home Care Company, a provider of independent living home care in Ames and nearby areas, provides respite care services that allow family care providers time to pause and take breaks from care – as much or as little as they need. Contact us at 515-292-2650 for a free in-home consultation to learn more.