Did you know that the number of Americans aged 65 and over is expected to double nearly from 52 million in 2018 to 95 million in 2060?
And that number is growing all the time. As the baby-boomers age and inherit the mantle of longevity, more and more caregiving will be required.
Because of this, it is essential that we all plan. If you haven’t considered how you would care for an aging parent or loved one, then now is the time to start.
In this article, our expert Caring for Aging Parents guide.
With these five tips, you’ll be the perfect person to care for your aging parent or relative.
1. Empathize With Your Aging Parents
Caring for the elderly, seeing the world through their eyes, and acknowledging their feelings can be difficult.
Listen carefully to their stories, acknowledging and validating age-related changes in their lives. Make time to take them out and do activities that they still enjoy.
Show gratitude and appreciation for all they have done for you and make them feel valued in your family. Regularly stay in touch by phone or video chat and be available anytime for listening and advice.
2. Make Time for Connections
Caring for aging parents is essential, so remember to set aside time to connect. Maintaining solid relationships with them.
With increasingly busy lives and obligations, it’s’ easy to lose sight of how vital relationship maintenance is, especially when dealing with older family members. Have regular dinners, or meet up during the day for lunch or coffee.
If the distance makes it difficult for more intimate interactions, read a book together over the phone or even plan a video chat.
3. Consider Different Living Arrangements
Depending on the situation, elderly parents may be better off in their own homes if they can still care for themselves. Alternatively, they may prefer to reside with their adult children in a multi-generational home setting.
Other adults, such as siblings, may also be able to provide the necessary level of care. Researching different retirement and assisted living facilities may be another living arrangement to consider.
Short-term respite care is also available to give caregivers a break. In addition, adult daycare facilities offer daytime services and activities aimed at socialization and health maintenance.
4. Prioritize their Financial Well-Being
This means taking the time to understand their financial situation and helping to manage their bills and budgeting.
This could include tracking their financial accounts, ensuring all invoices are paid on time and setting a budget for expenses.
It might also include helping them find ways to reduce spending, such as finding ways to maximize existing resources or taking advantage of government assistance programs.
5. Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle
A few tips to help in this regard are encouraging them to exercise regularly, eat a nutritious diet, and get adequate rest.
If your parent’s physical condition has been declining, talk to a doctor to discuss any possible medications or treatments that could aid in improving the situation. This dentist who does oral surgery in Queen Creek also suggests getting health checkups regularly. Consider aloe vesta cleansing foam to help them encourage a healthy lifestyle.
Guidelines for Caring for Aging Parents
Caring for aging parents can be challenging, but with the proper planning and attitude, it can be an emotionally rewarding experience.
Try these advice tips to make the process easier. Never be afraid to ask for help!
With the proper guidance, care for aging parents will become more accessible, providing them the care they deserve and allowing them to spend quality time together.
