Senior Care

Caring for your aging parents while working can take a toll on anyone’s financial and emotional resources. Especially if you are also juggling your workload from home, caring for the household, and taking care of your kids. Doing all of this on your own is a lot. And if you are not careful, you can burn out quickly.

We know it’s not easy trying to juggle life and taking care of an elderly parent, especially if they suffer from an illness. With the current situation in the world, and with new strings of the virus coming up every day, it can also be scary. Especially for elderly parents because we all know they are amongst the people who are more at risk of getting sick. In this guide today, we give you a few tips that can help you take care of your senior parents while working from home.

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Ensure you find time to connect with your parents before you start working

Your senior parents are probably just as stressed as you are. Even if they are not watching the news, they can also pick up on your moods of other people around them. If they feel they are a burden to you in any way, it can create a feeling of anxiety and loneliness where they may not be communicating their needs.

Ensure you find time to connect with your parents every day. Try to create a calm and happy atmosphere for them around the house so that you also have time to get some work done.

If your aging parents are not aware of what is going on in the news, you can also explain it to them in simple terms. Try to connect with them every morning before you start working. If you have other family members who live far, you can also set up zoom calls and video calls for them to connect with other family members and even friends. This creates a sense of connection for them and lowers the risk of falling into depression because of stress, anxiety, or loneliness.

 

Create a routine

Routines are also essential when caring for your aging parents. They can also be beneficial for helping to get some work done from home. The same way you have set up a routine for your kids when studying from home, is the same way you should schedule one for your parents. Those in private home care, such as https://vivanteliving.com/senior-living/newport-beach/ have this. So it is recommended to create routine in your home as well.

If your senior parents know when to expect to do something like getting dressed, eating meals, taking their medicine, and engaging in activities like exercising, walking, or enjoying their favorite shows, they will be less likely to be bored or disrupt your working hours.

Their Routine and Needs

Remember to try as much as possible not to disrupt your parent’s routine as well. If it is their time to exercise, connect with friends or family on a call, or watch their favorite show, give them their time and ensure you have connected all the gadgets they need. For example, if they will be on a call, is the internet-connected? Have you signed them into the call and with volume adjusted just right? Do they have snacks and something to drink if they enjoy watching a show, whether water or juice? If they enjoy reading and use any devices, have you connected them to the phone or the tablet to the app they need to source reading materials from? And most importantly, do they have a way to communicate with you if they need something urgently?

 

Set boundaries

Ensure that you let your senior parents understand that even if you are home often and life is a bit different, you still have work responsibilities to tend to. Unless your parents have recently retired, they may not know working from home fundamentals, video conferencing, laptops, etc. Maybe when they used to work, the idea of working away from the office or freelancing may be a new concept to them.

Remember to provide your parents with visual cues when working and remind them that you need to work with no distractions. For example, when you have your home office door shut, when on a video call and have your headphones on, or when sitting and working on your computer. You can minimize interruptions by discussing and determining what warrants one and what does not.

If your parents are a fall risk, you may want to learn how to prevent falls in elderly, like escorting them anytime they need to go up or down the stairs. If they are incontinent, let them know that they can call you for help whenever they need to use the bathroom. You can even install cameras around the home with motion sensors if your parent has Alzheimer’s or dementia so that you are always aware of where they are in the house while you are working. Remember, folks with dementia or any other cognitive decline may not understand your boundaries. So you will have to repeat everything as much as needed.

 

Remember to take care of yourself.

It’s okay to admit you are overwhelmed sometimes. You may be doing too much and forgetting to take care of yourself. Ensure you are sleeping, eating well, and also exercising. We know it sounds like when will you find the time to fit all this between your busy schedule. But you can enlist the help of a professional caregiver who can be coming a few days a week so that you can catch a break.

In-home services range from simple assistance, meal preparation, or light housekeeping. Hiring a professional caregiver ensures any medical needs your parents may require are also taken care of. Hiring a part-time caregiver will relieve some of your tasks tremendously if your work consumes a big chunk of your day. You will have some time to finish work, take care of the family, and have some alone time to yourself.

 

For more on this topic, check out the full Senior Care collection

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Healthy Habits for the Elderly – 5 Ways to Enjoy Life as a Senior 

A healthy body makes a healthy spirit. As we age, our bodies change. But we can still look after ourselves to stay fit. The key is to make healthy choices each day so that the payoff can be a long and comfortable life. But how can you ensure this?

Obviously, it’s only logical to start by exercising and following the right diet. However, you should also remember about staying hydrated and avoiding the excessive sun. The secret to aging well and remaining active is to take care of your body and mind.

You’re never too old to make changes and live a better life. The good news is that you don’t have to stop enjoying yourself as a senior! Even if, for some health-related reason, you need live-in care or another form of assistance. In fact, you can do more than you ever imagined! Continue reading if you’re interested in more details about healthy habits for seniors.

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Stay Active

As we age, it’s natural to slow down a bit, but that doesn’t mean you should give up on staying fit and active. Now, it’s more important than ever to keep moving and avoid a sedentary lifestyle.

There are some simple things you can do to maintain a certain activity level. It’s all about making small changes in your daily routine and looking for opportunities to move around.

For instance, you can take the stairs instead of the elevator. Go for a walk in the evening instead of watching TV, or go for a bike ride every Sunday. All these little things will add up and make a significant difference over time. You may also consider joining a community fitness class or a sports club. These days, it’s easier than ever to find something you like and stick with it.

If your mobility is limited, all is not lost yet. Physical therapists can recommend exercises tailored to your condition and help you improve your mobility and strength. There are also senior fitness centers offering classes specifically designed for the elderly.

 

Eat a Healthy Diet

There are some simple rules of thumb that apply to seniors as much as they do to younger people. The first one is to avoid processed foods. These are high in sodium, sugar, and fat and don’t provide the body with any real value. Moreover, these foods lack fiber, which helps keep your digestive system healthy and your weight in check.

The second rule is to limit meat and dairy products. Sure, you can still eat them in moderation, but make sure you’re getting enough nutrients from plant-based foods. These include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

Finally, the third rule is to eat small meals throughout the day. This will keep your blood sugar stable and prevent you from overeating. It’s also convenient for seniors who have trouble chewing and swallowing.

 

Drink Plenty of Water

Water helps with digestion, maintains your metabolism, and keeps your skin looking young and healthy. It also flushes toxins from your body, which can otherwise build up and cause serious health problems. The recommended daily water intake depends on your age, activity level, and the weather. For example, if it’s hot outside, your body requires more water than when it’s cold. In general, though, seniors should drink about 8 glasses of water a day.

Also, avoid sodas and other sugary drinks that won’t be good for your health in the long run. If you prefer to sweeten your water, you can use a few drops of natural honey or lemon juice.

 

Avoid the Sun

The sun is an excellent source of energy and vitamin D, but it is also the leading cause of skin cancer and premature aging. While we should all enjoy the outdoors, it’s vital to limit your exposure to direct sunlight as much as possible. Wear hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen whenever you’re out to enjoy the world without damaging your skin and body.

Prolonged exposure to the sun can also cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can be quite dangerous. As a senior, you are especially at risk, so be careful even when it’s not extremely hot outside.

[Read:The Science of Sunscreen – Helpful Facts for the Whole Family]

 

Stay Mentally Alert

As you age, it’s normal to feel less sharp and have slower reactions, but this doesn’t mean that your brain has stopped working. In fact, as long as you stay mentally active and challenge your brain, it can remain healthy and strong.

It’s never too late to learn a new skill. If you’re an avid reader, why not pick up a new language? Or, if you like to cook, why not enroll in a cooking class or start cooking more challenging meals? Other ways to keep your mind sharp include playing board games, doing crossword puzzles, or watching educational shows and movies.

You can also do challenging puzzles such as complicated locks. Yes, lockpicking is actually a puzzle game that can keep your mind active. You can start by solving simple lockpicking challenges with a complete beginner lock picking set. This can make the exercise more exciting and convenient since you have all the tools that a beginner lock picker can need.

Moreover, you shouldn’t neglect your mental health and emotional well-being. Keep in touch with your loved ones, participate in social activities, and find ways to have fun. And if you feel particularly down, don’t hesitate to contact a mental health counselor.

 

Final Thoughts

There’s no need to give up on a healthy lifestyle just because you are getting older. You can enjoy life as a senior by making small changes that will make a big difference in the long run. Your health is essential and should be taken care of so that you can enjoy your golden years.

Stay mentally alert, take care of your body, eat healthy foods, drink plenty of water, and keep moving. If you can stick to these habits for the rest of your life, you will be able to enjoy it – your loved ones will be grateful and happy to have you.

 

For more on this topic, check out the full Senior Care collection

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There comes a time in life when considering care providers for an elderly family member, or one of your loved ones, may be the best option. Care homes cater exclusively to the elderly and those with special needs. However, there are some common myths about care homes and it’s vital that we address any misleading information.

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Debunking Care Home Myths

“A care home is like a hospital” is one of the distinctive myths. It also doesn’t particularly make a nursing home sound like the best solution for older adults. But while the services offered at a care home are indeed health-related, the various care options include wholesome activities that older people wouldn’t necessarily have in their own home.

“Residents stay in bed all day” is another common myth about this specific service industry. Yet many care providers organize outdoor activities that improve residents’ wellbeing. They also provide them with useful information to optimize their health. This is very much the opposite of just staying in bed.

You’ve most likely heard, “care homes are so expensive!” as this is one of the most frequent concerns. However, there are many types of affordable care home packages available. And oftentimes, clients’ costs are relative to their circumstances and preferences.

If you’re planning a visit, or have visited a care home, then you’ve likely realize that your loved one will receive the necessary support they require. And yes, many residents are dealing with health issues. And some do have special needs. But this is why it’s necessary to have experienced care staff right at your fingertips. Rest assured, the expertise of staff members means that they know exactly how to support and provide assistance to an older person.

When Should I Consider A Care Home?

People’s lives change drastically as they age. Families often struggle to deal with parent’s health deteriorating and the onset of degenerative neurological disorders such as dementia – which is always a major concern. Frequent trips to the hospital are typically a warning sign that one’s health is no longer what it once was.

Other factors such as immobility, dementia, struggling to talk or communicate effectively are all precursors. Home care is often opted for by families dealing with these challenges.

However, the biggest issue with home care is a lack of community, this is why you should consider services such as Highpoint Care. Data suggests that being surrounded by friends and other residents do wonder for a person’s morale. Socializing often has a positive effect on their health. Residents at a care facility always have someone to speak to. They also have access to 24-hour security, and they’re guaranteed that their wellbeing is being prioritized.

It’s always a difficult decision to make, but it’s one of great importance that could even cost you your life if you don’t opt for the required care that you need.

 

Caring For People With Dementia

If you’re suffering from dementia, or are at risk of inheriting dementia, it’s incredibly important that you take the correct precautionary measures and get the care you need.

Dementia is often associated with memory loss. But there are different types and classes of dementia. Dementia symptoms include memory loss, difficulty with logical reasoning, attention, and the loss of other mental abilities.

If you’ve previously visited or consulted with a specialist regarding your dementia disorder, or a loved one’s, a nursing home is advised to ensure the improvement of the condition. The facilities are fully equipped and staff are specialized in caring for people with dementia.

 

FAQs

Are people with dementia given the necessary care?

Absolutely! Dementia is a disorder that is manageable if you’ve got a qualified and experienced team that knows exactly how to manage patients that have it.

Will my relatives be safe?

Yes, experienced security and nursing staff work around the clock to ensure patients’ safety!

Are there options for non-English speakers?

The trained staff at home care facilities are often multilingual. But, it’s best to inquire or make a special request in order to meet your specific language needs.

 

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3 Things to Have in Mind When Living with Senior Relatives

In today’s world, it is becoming more and more common for the average family to include a senior relative or two. In fact, according to AARP’s State of Non-Traditional Family Households, approximately 35% of U.S. households include an adult child who has a parent living with them. Although these arrangements can be incredibly beneficial for everyone involved, there are some things that you should consider before making the decision to move in with your senior parents or other relatives.

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They’re Aware of Their Age

Living with an elderly relative can be difficult. But it’s important to remember that they are aware of their age and limitations. So, when you take care of them, try to be as understanding as possible.

Try to give them the same amount of privacy they enjoyed while they lived alone. If your elderly relative is old-fashioned, respect their values and avoid doing things that would make them uncomfortable. Likewise, if your relative is younger at heart, don’t treat them like an old person — let them have a say in what happens in the household.

Getting old is difficult. For instance, do you ever pause and think about where you want to be buried? Or what kind of urn you want your ashes to end up in? Probably not. But the elderly may have these thoughts, being that they’re aware of the average life expectancies. There are great sites, like greenmeadowmemorials.com, that provide a wonderful selection of urns (yes, we know that browsing for urns might seem bizarre to you, but try to see it as a final gift, a final choice). We are sure that this is something that makes you think, but don’t feel bad. What we mean is that this should be a wake-up call for you to do some things in life before it’s too late. Of course we don’t mean doing all the things at once. But simply doing more of the things you love doing, spending more time with your family and friends, and getting closer to them.

You Should Try to Be Flexible

In today’s world, many middle-aged people find themselves living with elderly relatives. This can be difficult in many ways. Some of the elderly might be picky eaters, or they may not like the way you organize your things.

However, it is possible that you and your elderly relatives can get along with one another if you are flexible and are willing to compromise. It’s important to pick your battles and only focus on the things that really matter. If you and your elderly relatives are willing to do this, you will be able to have a much more peaceful life together. You might even be able to make some memories that you can both enjoy for years to come.

Some elderly people may be so set in their ways that they don’t want to do anything with you. If this is the case, it might be difficult for you to have a relationship with them. However, if your elderly relatives are willing to spend time with you, there are some things that you can do together. For example, you could take them out to dinner at their favorite restaurant. You could also take them to a movie. By doing this, you will be able to make the most of your time together and create some wonderful memories that will last for years to come.

They Are Not Children

When kids live with elderly relatives (grandparents, great grandparents, or anyone in between) they often treat them like children. They feed them when they want to eat, they tell them what to do, they dress them like babies, and they don’t allow them to make decisions for themselves.

This is a huge mistake. Elderly people are not children. If you treat an older person like a child, you will have a very hard time connecting with them as a caregiver. You also run the risk of really upsetting your elderly relative.

Learn about their life story. This is the best way to connect with your elderly relative. They have a lot of stories to tell, and they love to talk about them. In fact, most older people feel that their life was very interesting and important. The more you know about your relative’s past, the better you will be able to connect with them on an emotional level. This can be difficult because many elderly people don’t remember all of the details about their life. You can encourage them to talk about their past by asking them questions.

 

Conclusion to When Living with Senior Relatives

Do not be afraid to ask your elderly relative to tell you stories from their past. They will be glad that you asked, and they will love telling you the stories. Whether you’re caring for an elderly family member or living with one, these three things can help make your senior relative enjoy their retirement years.

 

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Caring for your parents is an important aspect of life as you, and they, age. Eventually, they will reach a point where they may need more assistance and help from you. If you have a healthy relationship with your parents, you need to start considering and preparing for the best ways to take care of them in their older age. Here are a few tips to help you.

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Living Facilities

As your parents get older in age, there are several aspects that you need to take into consideration in order to ensure they are taken care of in their senior years. One major aspect you need to consider and determine is where they will live. Depending on your financial situation, you may opt and consider putting them in a retirement home. This will allow them to live out their days in a facility or community that meets their needs. But without you having to worry and take on the burden of taking care of them everyday yourself. Retirement home options typically cost a substantial amount of money, which makes this an option for only those with the financial freedom to do so.

Another option would be to have your parents live with you, or live close by. This way you can monitor them and their needs. If they are still independent and capable, they may live in their own home. But have it ideally outfitted with different equipment and measures according to their needs. Considering mobility, medical requirements, and any future challenges. Having a parent living in your home may be more cost-efficient and easier to monitor in case of emergencies. But it does also come with its own obstacles and difficulties.

 

Emergency Alert Devices

If your parents live on their own, as many older adults wish to do so in order to maintain their independence, it is wise to be prepared and ready for any situations such as accidents or critical medical emergencies. One of the ways that you can be prepared is with the use of alert devices and emergency contact equipment. Certain help alert devices allow individuals to access emergency services in the event they have found themselves in a situation where they may be hurt, injured, or in need of some form of assistance.

These alert systems will call a dispatcher that can send the needed response teams to the location since they often come equipped with a built-in GPS tracker. Other devices or systems to consider would be mobility equipment to help navigate the home and stairs, or even monitoring and communication equipment to stay in contact with your parents. You can also use smart devices such as watches to help monitor health status and ensure you are preemptive about preventing health concerns from worsening.

Diet And Exercise

As your parents age, you want to ensure that you help them prioritize their health and exercise. You need to get them to consider what they eat and stay active to ensure their health is in good standing. Especially since this contributes to the long-term health of the elderly. A healthy individual will not only extend their life, but will improve the quality of it.

[Read: Staying Healthy]

 

Routine And Schedule

It is important that you build a routine and schedule for your parents as they get older. Consistency provides a positive impact on an aging brain. It also helps ensure they are taking their necessary medications, getting the needed daily exercise and activity, and following overall healthy habits. Including getting the right amount of sleep.

Professional Care And Support

Watching and caring for your parents can feel overwhelming at times. Especially considering the fact that you may have a life of your own with many responsibilities. If you feel burdened and burnt out trying to care for your family, you need to consider reaching out to get support from a professional caregiver. You may hesitate as these options may be financially costly. But they will easily provide you with more freedom and less stress in your life.

 

Time Spent Together

One of the benefits of having a caregiver or having your parents live away from you is that when you spend time together, you can focus on the positive and social aspects of your relationship. You want to ensure that you foster a healthy relationship, as social experience is key for mental and emotional health. If you are in a situation where you are visiting your parents because you do not see them as frequently, try to see them as often as possible, as these relationships manifest in their overall health and well-being.

 

It is key that you have patience and understanding when you are caring for your parents. Consider what they want and what the ideal situation is for you, your parents, and your family. You want to treat them as to how you would like to eventually be treated once you reach more senior age.

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Aging is part of the growth of human beings. So you can expect your parents to show some specific signs when they are getting older. It can be a challenge for you as your parents start to age. Especially when their capability to care for themselves starts to reduce. However, it is not always possible for older people to figure out the signs of old age. You might not have any idea or know where to start on how to help your parents. But the truth is signs of aging are the indication that your parent’s health is at stake. The earlier you attend to it, the better it helps them.

Here are some guidelines on signs that your parents are getting old and how to assist your parent.

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Decline in Hygiene

Hygiene is essential to everyone regardless of age. Your parents being an older person, when they start feeling the signs of old age, begin to engage in hygiene declination. This can include not bathing once or twice a day as recommended by the Doctor. Personal training activities such as brushing teeth, hair, and cutting nails can become quite a challenge for your parents in their old age. However, if you are in Nebraska, you can opt for home care in Lincoln, NE to assist them in regulating their hygiene. This involves employing an assistant who will take care of them and help them do some petty cleaning since they might be unable to help themselves.

 

Change in Eating Habits

As your parents grow old, they start to experience some signs in their old age. Making a healthy meal is not easy for your parents if they have difficulty shopping. And deciding what to prepare can get confusing. Then cooking the meal itself might feel overwhelming. Moreover, you can schedule a meal, and they might not be interested in what you have ready. They may even prefer to eat something different from what you have prepared. Once you notice their change in eating habits, you can assist your parents in preparing their favorite meal to remind them how much they love the meal so that they can eat properly. Also, you can get a nutritionist that advises them on what to eat as it preserves their health.

Forgetfulness

Everyone has been in a situation whereby they forget their phone at home or don’t remember their phone number. Most older people tend to forget things when they are in their old age. They can talk about something this minute, and the next few minutes you ask them about it, they will have forgotten. Also, they can keep something somewhere and forget where they kept such items. But when forgetfulness is becoming a pronounced pattern and your parents are in this kind of situation, you should pay attention. You can assist them in this kind of situation by telling them to get a note and pen. They can write down the list of things they want to do or where they kept something in order to remember.

 

Untidy Environment

Your parents might not take note that their tiles are dirty, or their floor hasn’t been vacuumed in a long time. The bed sheets aren’t changed, and their bathroom hasn’t been washed. All these need cleaning, but they cannot engage with their old age. They can only do petty jobs as they are not strong enough to do extraneous work, unlike in their younger days. However, you can help get a housekeeper that will assist them in tidying up the house, making it look organized, and even help your parent’s physical and mental health.

Decreased Mobility

Mobility, balance, and walking are the primary concerns in the aging population. A fall can trigger a health issue in an older person. Your parents might not have the strength to move from one place to another because of decreased mobility. Going to occasions, programs, or even areas of worship will be something they do once in a while. However, you can assist them in arranging for a private driver or uber that will be available every time they intend to go out.

 

Loss of interest in Hobbies

The sign that your parents are getting older is showcased when they stop showing interest in what their hobbies are that are enjoyable. It might appear to be a sign of depression. But most older people rarely have that in their old age. Getting old has never been an easy task as it comes with different effects, such as feeling down when engaging in their favorite activities. In this kind of situation, you can bring your kids to visit them. And when they see how the children play, it reminds them of their hobbies and might develop their interest in them again

It would be best if you practiced looking out for your parents, rendering the help be necessary to them as an adult. It would be best to spend more time with them and observe their behavior. The older they become, the more difficult they will have when they engage in regular activities. Your parents can live a healthy life even when their mobility is limited and their mental capacity diminishes.

 

For more on this topic, check out the full Senior Care collection

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Helpful Tips On How To Take Care Of Your Elders

Having elderly people close to you can be a source of joy, but also major stress. Having the proper information on the best way to care for them is important in order to have a positive relationship with your loved ones. Read below for some helpful tips on how you can make sure that they are cared for properly.

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At home care from nurses

A big burden when it comes to taking care of the elderly is that you have to provide them with continuous medical care. This task can seem overwhelming and difficult, especially for those who do not have much experience or knowledge in this area. A good solution for this problem is hiring nurses who will approach your loved one’s needs on a daily basis. This will also take some pressure off your shoulders, as you will be able to go about your day without worrying if they are enjoying their time or not.

 

Senior assisted living facility

Another good solution when it comes to taking care of the elderly is moving them to an assisted living facility. These facilities usually have a staff that works around the clock in order to provide good care for your loved ones and meet their every need. They also help keep track of medications and prevent any potential injuries that might occur when seniors live alone at home.  If you are looking for facilities around Maryland, Bel Air Assisted Living is near Fallston, and they can help individuals looking for assisted living options. Their assisted living program offers a little more assistance than the independent living option. Residents in this program can get personalized care, including assistance with bathing.

 

Create a healthy environment

Another good way to take care of your loved ones if they are living with you is by making sure that the house is as clean and comfortable as possible. Make sure to provide a clean and healthy living environment, especially if they are suffering from any diseases. Keep in mind that elderly people tend to be sensitive when it comes to allergies, so take care of the house by keeping an eye on dust particles and mold spores. You should also make sure the rooms have proper ventilation and access to sunlight, as this will keep them feeling energetic throughout the day.

 

Prepare healthy meals

It is also important to make sure that they are eating healthy and nutritious food. Their age makes them more susceptible to malnutrition, so make sure you prepare meals that contain all the necessary nutrients. Prepare them as often as possible, and keep in mind that they need smaller quantities than you would personally like to eat. If you are struggling with this task or if your loved one has a lot of trouble eating by themselves, then hiring a home caregiver might be an option for you.

 

Why should you care about the elderly?

The elderly are a huge source of happiness to their loved ones. They have provided you with years of love and support, so now it is time for you to return the favor.  Although taking care of them can be a bit burdensome at times, it is still important to do so. All in all, the most important thing is to keep an open line of communication with your loved ones and make sure they feel comfortable living with you or in an assisted living facility.

Taking care of your loved ones is a big task that takes dedication and effort from everyone involved. With these tips, you can get started on taking good care of them today and make sure they are happy and safe wherever they are.

For more on this topic, check out the full Senior Care collection

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How To Take The Best Care Of Your Elders

Aging is an inevitable part of life that affects all families. When you reach adulthood, your parents become seniors. Oftentimes, you do not realize how their age will affect them, or how you will be affected. Indeed, you do not notice any significant changes or problems if they are already seniors in good health and live comfortably. However, aging’s consequences do become more apparent over time, and long-term care may be required. Providing elderly treatment at home necessitates additional training. Here’s how to take the best possible care of your elderly relatives.

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Assess Your Elders Needs

Caring for an older adult can be stressful because you are unsure about what needs to be done. To fix the dilemma, take a step back and assess how much assistance your parent requires in daily life. Know how much help they need in each category and how much help they require to remain safe and healthy. Consider the following primary areas:

• Family support
• Cognitive health
• Social interaction
• Medical needs
• Meal preparation
• Mobility
• Home safety
• Personal hygiene

 

Keep Them Involved In Their Care

If your loved one believes that others are making all of their decisions for them, they will be less willing to accept support. Please include them in all discussions and decisions about their treatment to make them feel more independent and in charge of their situation.

Communicate with them freely and frankly, and solicit their advice and feedback on the issues you’re considering. Anything they have to say about their needs or their thoughts about the treatment choices you’re thinking, pay attention to. If they raise any issues, listen to them absolutely without dismissing or downplaying their concerns.

[Read: 50 Simple Ways to Help Others]

 

Get The Help You Need

It’s important to remember that there’s no shame in getting support when you need it. Find the help you can afford if you feel you can handle it all but want to provide your elder’s best possible treatment. It may take some time and effort to find the right providers first, but it’s an investment that will pay off in the long run.

Enrolling your elderly parent in a senior living facility, such as https://belairassistedliving.com/, helps them socialize while still receiving skilled treatment. He or she will be safe from any harm that could befall them. The facility also provides a variety of facilities, including but not limited to drug management and emergency services.

Have Them Participate In Activity Of Daily Life

Another excellent way to care for your elderly loved ones is to ensure that they continue to participate in everyday activities. Getting them out of the house for an errand or a ride to pick up a meal provides the mental stimulation they wouldn’t get if they stayed home.

If your parents have a hobby or a favorite pastime, try to keep them going as long as you can. With your or a trained caregiver’s help, the elder will profit from attempting to live everyday life.

Above all, reach out to and love your elders, whether they are relatives or friends. They once loved and cared about you, and they still do. Now it’s up to you to keep an eye out for them in the best way possible. You will be glad you did your best to make their senior years beautiful and happy if you follow the advice given.

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When your own little family starts to grow, it’s clear that a lot of your time is spent caring for them. But as your own parents get older, you might find that you have to offer them support too. Helping your elderly parents means looking for reliable Senior Care. A way of ensuring that they not only have companionship but also help when they need it with washing, running errands, medication, etc. it’s vital to know where to look for such services. Even though you might be tempted to ask them to move into your family home, sometimes this simply isn’t possible.

Luckily, there are many reputable providers around the country that offer these types of services, meaning that you can select which one is most suitable. However, before doing this, it’s important that you identify the pros and cons of this decision, along with any alternatives.

To ensure you’re on the right path, here are some pros and cons to in-home care services so you’re always in the know…

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Pros of In-Home Care Services for Helping Your Elderly Parents

 

Flexibility in Services for Care

As aforementioned, a big reason why so many people opt for in-home care services is the flexibility in the services that they have to offer. Available on demand, they can select what services they need – no matter what condition their health is in.

 

Greater Independence for Elderly

By staying in their own home rather than moving into a facility, they will be able to continue to enjoy their home comforts. This also includes being able to keep their pets by their side throughout the process.

 

Stability for Your Parents

As they can remain within their community, they can continue to have family or friends to visit whenever they like. This advantage is welcomed by anyone who wants to stay connected with their community and remain in the house that they’ve lived in for many happy years.

 

High Standard Care

As in-home care senior care services are registered with national regulators, you can have the peace of mind that your loved one is in safe hands. Receiving high-quality care at all times, they can have the attention they require.

 

Cons of In-Home Care Services for Helping Your Elderly Parents

 

Cost of In-Home Care Services

Receiving personalized care within their home (sometimes 24/7) can be expensive. Not only will they have to pay for the service, but updating their home so that it’s more practical for them. This could involve fitting a stairlift, making the bath more accessible, etc. 

 

Different Carers for Your Elderly Parents

Although they will be receiving personalized care, often when you opt for in-home care services through an agency your parent will have different members of staff caring for them. Because of this, your parent might find it harder to connect with each carer, resulting in them having resentment towards them. 

The Alternative: Residential Care for Your Parents

As aforementioned, often the alternative to in-home care is residential care. With this option, there are many benefits. These benefits include ensuring that your parent is having round the clock care within a safe environment. And they can also socialize with others within the home. 

However, this comes with a price. Even though the cost will depend on location, the level of care required and the standard of the home itself, the overall expense isn’t something that should be ignored. It’s therefore important to weigh up the costs, along with the other factors mentioned above before taking the leap and making the decision as to what option is better. 

When doing this, of course, it’s important to talk to your parent and ask them how they feel about the decision, along with which one suits them better. You obviously don’t want to force them into either if they aren’t happy with it. So sit down and discuss it with them first.

For more on this topic, check out the full Senior Care collection

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