Thursday, September 21, 2017

Home Sweet Home: Caring For Elderly Parents


No one likes to admit it, but age gets the best of us all. From a middle-aged person’s point of view, it’s a scary thought. And, it's not just because you will reach pensioner age at some stage in time. No, it’s because your parents won’t be able to look after themselves and the kids have to come to the rescue. Caring for elderly parents is the least any child can do after the love they show. The thing is that parents are independent and hate the idea of a home. The H word is enough to tear a family apart, which is why it is smart to know the alternatives. 

Here’s how to care for elderly parents without one.
Make Space

The first option is to ask your parents to live with you in the family home. It makes sense because you can offer them the support they need as they age. Plus, the pill is an easier one to swallow because they maintain an element of independence. However, this is only an option if you have enough room. Trying to fit two additional people into a cramped house is as stressful as it is illogical. Not only will it make the transition difficult, but it will also take away from your quality of life. 

Get A Carer

What’s best for both parties? The answer is for the parents to stay at home. Of course, this isn’t always possible if their health is deteriorating. Let’s face it; you would never forgive yourself if they tripped and fell. Thankfully, there is a solution and it’s an in-house carer. Lots of companies provide home care specialists who drop in during the day to take care of their needs. From helping them up the stairs to collecting their shopping, they do it all. Because you are at work or looking after the kids, a carer can be a lifesaver. 

Downsize

One reason children are uncomfortable is the size of the house. For old people, there is a high risk of a slipping and falling. Usually, this happens when they climb or come down the stairs. In truth, there is no way to prevent this from happening unless there are no stairs. Of course, a bungalow is a property which is solely a one-floor home. By downsizing to a smaller house, there is a better chance of maintaining their health. 

Retirement Center

Don’t say it loudly, but “retirement center” is a fancy way of saying care home. However, it makes the transition much easier if the word “home” isn’t included. Plus, you can find an establishment which doesn’t resemble a retirement home whatsoever. For example, if they have their own apartment, it gives the impression they aren't part of the community. But, there are professionals on hand to help should there be an incident. Sometimes, you have to be sneaky because it’s for your parents own good. 

Does any of the above sound like a viable option? If so, it might be the way forward. 

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