5 Tips for Taking Care of Elderly Parents

Taking care of an aging parent can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to bond and create new memories.

Researched, written by Amber & The Team
Updated on January 22, 2023

Found in Aging & elderly care • Family Wellness

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As our parents age, it’s only natural that we want to do everything we can to ensure they are comfortable and safe. However, taking care of elderly parents can be a challenging task, both physically and emotionally. It’s essential to be prepared for the challenges ahead and understand that our parents’ needs may change over time. This article will provide five tips on caring for elderly parents.

Educate Yourself On Common Health Concerns

With age, seniors become more susceptible to health problems. Educating yourself on common health concerns for the elderly is essential to identify potential issues early on. Some common health concerns include high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and memory loss. If you notice any changes in your parent’s health, speak with their doctor. It’s also essential to have a plan in case of an emergency.

Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Regular check-ups are a vital part of maintaining your parent’s health. Schedule regular appointments with their primary care physician and any specialists they may see. These appointments provide an opportunity to discuss changes in your parent’s health. Additionally, many seniors are eligible for free or reduced-cost screenings for various health conditions. Ask their doctor about recommended screenings and when they should be scheduled.

Keep Their Home Safe

A home safety assessment is an excellent way to detect any hazards. During a home safety assessment, the assessor will look for potential hazards in the home that could contribute to a fall and address them accordingly. These include removing loose carpets and clutter and installing grab bars in the stairways and bathrooms for support.

Investing in medical alert systems is another way to help keep elderly parents safe in their homes. These systems allow seniors to call for help in an emergency. Life Assure alert system is an excellent example on the market; however, there are other reputable companies. With the many medical alert systems available, it is best to research to find the best Life Assure alternative system for your parent’s needs. These devices are worn as bracelets or necklaces and offer 24/7 monitoring and protection for seniors who live alone.

Promote Their Independence

It’s natural for parents to want to maintain their independence. However, there may come a time when they need assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating.

In these cases, it’s essential to balance helping them and allowing them to do as much as possible independently. For example, you could help them with their bathing routine by setting out their clothes and getting the bathroom ready, but allow them to do the actual bathing themselves.

It’s also vital to encourage socialization. Isolation can lead to depression, so it’s essential to encourage your parents to interact with others. This could include joining a social club or just spending time with friends and family. You can also schedule some relaxation time in a spa, manicure, or just a day out. Things like acupuncture, meditation, and aromatherapy can also help promote relaxation.

Share the Caregiving Responsibility

The role of the caregiver can be a difficult adjustment, as it requires a significant commitment of time and energy. However, you can share the caregiving load with other family members, including siblings and adult children. Doing this can ensure that your parents receive the best care while maintaining your health and well-being.

Following these tips can help your elderly parents live a healthier and more independent life. While taking care of an aging parent can be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to bond and create new memories.