Our elders, who once took care of us, may need us to help take care of them as they get up in age and are limited in the things they can do. Many children end up caring for their parents, grandparents, and other elderly relatives. The responsibility of caring for an elderly person, in addition to taking care of your other responsibilities, such as work and family, can be very stressful. With careful planning and shared responsibility among family members, taking care of the elderly can be done effectively and help make their last years as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Instructions
1. Communicate with your elderly relative and discuss her needs. It is important to discuss living arrangements, medical needs, financial needs, and any assistance she may require. If your elderly relative is still mentally capable of making rational decisions, speak with her about what she would like to do. If she is no longer able to decide what is best for her, speak with her physician and other family members about the best care options for her.
2. Visit with elderly relatives and neighbors. Once children and family members move away, many elderly people are left alone with no one to talk to. Plan to visit reguarly to sit, talk and check up on daily activities. It will make him feel good to have the company and know that you care. While you’re there, offer to take care of any tasks such as cleaning, cooking, or running errands.
3. Help him retain a sense of independence if possible. Just because a person is elderly and can no longer do everything for himself doesn’t mean you should begin treating him like a child. If he does not want to move out of his residence, discuss having a home care service or nurse come in a few times a week to help with personal and medical care. Look into programs like Meals on Wheels which bring food to the home. Also look into transportation services that transport elderly persons to doctor’s appointments, to run errands, as well as perform other service related activities.
4. Make sure the elderly person has good insurance to cover the services he needs, otherwise getting him the services he needs can be a financial burden. Programs like Medicare and Medicaid will not cover all of the necessary costs. Having additional insurance coverage will provide a wider option of treatment and services for the elderly and offer greater help with long term care.
5. Look online for helpful resources with elder care. You can research nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health care, and other necessary care options. Some helpful companies are AARP, your local department of aging, and local community and medical centers with programs for the elderly.
Tags: family members, care Look, care options, , elderly relative