Throughout our lives nearly all of us have been raised and cared for by our parents. We grow up and strive to be the best citizens and strive for a successful life of our own. Somewhere along the way our parents age and slow down in their abilities to fully care for themselves. It's at that point that roles are reversed and children may need to actually "parent" their parents. This task can be very overwhelming especially if one child is saddled with all or most of the care giving duties. At this point, the child or children need to seek out the many resources that are available.
The care giving children need to pool their resources and try to manage duties. The children living in the area need to fairly split the care giving duties so that no is overwhelmed and the parent or parents are properly taken care of. Children outside the area should focus on critical research topics pertaining to legal, financial and key attributes related to institutional care. This way an additional perspective is available.
Care duties should not be limited to children especially in the case of an only child. A person in that situation should seek out other relatives and even friends if nothing else for advice. Believe it or not relatives like to be consulted and a closer bond may be formed.
Each town has many community resources. Meals on Wheels can help when there are no other resources for a senior to get a hot meal on a cold or rainy day. Transportation benefits are available to those who have difficulty walking. Consulting the local Office of the Aging is a great place to start.
Research is a critical part of the care giving process. This can take on many forms from home health care aides to assisted living facilities to legal and financial issues. It's always best to try to allow the aging parent to live at home. Therefore its best to get references on a well established happinesslifetime.com Home Health Care Agency. The parent will certainly feel more comfortable in their own home. However, in the case of limited resources and a more pronounced case or Alzheimer's disease, the best facility may be an assisted living home with a dementia unit. The care managers and social workers can take a large burden off the primary care givers. Plus, the parents can get some physical, mental, emotional and social stimulation. When the situation gets even more extreme, then the Nursing Home is the next step.
At this point, the children should be certain that the parent's financial and legal house is in order. Again look for recommendations and establish power of attorneys and health care proxies so there is complete control of the funds for critical issues. There are many investment strategies that will protect the parent's income especially in this volatile stock market. From a legal point of view, it may be prudent to apply for Medicaid as this may save money for the "well" parent or even you or your siblings when your parents are no longer here.
This is not an easy time for any family member. It is important to take care of yourself. Reward yourself and your siblings frequently. If necessary seek out support groups. There are many for Cancer and Alzheimer's patients. Social Workers and Counselors are great resources as well. Just knowing that there is someone out there who can relate is a big relief.
Caring for Your Aging Parents is a big responsibility that can bring on a great deal of stress. Nonetheless, there are many sufficient resources out in your community and beyond that can greatly help. Just keep the faith and be aware that there is help no matter what your situation may be.
My name is Glenn Wiener and I am person with many interests ranging from sports to music to speed dating and more. I have had a long career as a Financial/Operations Analyst in a variety of organizations large and small. In my spare time I am an active member of Toastmasters, an aspiring musician, an active hiker, a part time organizer of speed dating events, music and book review writer, avid fan of sports, museums and music and so much more. Over time, you will see a variety of articles submitted by me on a variety of subjects. I hope to hear from many fellow members with feedback and more information on the many topics that exist on this sight.
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