Important Considerations As Your Parents Age

 

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Having parents who are getting older can be a tough situation. There may be a lot of questions going through your mind and a lot of information to think about. In the past, they’ve always taken care of you and now the roles are reversed.

There are some important considerations as your parents get older you should take into account. The more you think through these topics and details the better off you’ll be. There are going to be a lot of decisions to make and you’ll want to be prepared to take action and do so with confidence.

Health Status & Needs

Start by having a discussion with them and seeing how they’re feeling overall. You should evaluate their health status and dive deeper into their specific needs. There are also safety issues to consider such as falls, driving, and more. You must get a better idea of what ailments or issues they have and what kind of care they might need. Medical and health issues can be challenging to deal with as well as costly. Assess where they’re at and what they think they will need now and in the future so they can live a rewarding life.

Living Situation

Another important consideration as your parents age is their living situation. You must think about where they will be the safest and most comfortable. Consider if they can make some adjustments and stay at home or if they’ll need to enter a nursing home or assisted living. If your parents prefer to stay closer to family, you can arrange for home care services. There are many benefits of home healthcare, from proving quality treatment in the comfort of their homes to giving them the opportunity to actively socialize with friends and family. Consult with a home care provider to weigh your options and ensure that you include your parents in all discussions. In the case that they do need to stay elsewhere then you should try to visit often and monitor how they’re doing overall. Should you suspect injuries from assisted living then it’s best to seek legal help and guidance right away. It’s a circumstance best left up to the experts who can evaluate your case and advise with the next steps.

Finances

Finances will also play an important role in the aging of your parents. Getting older and dealing with an array of issues or matters can add up. You must learn more about their financial situation and make sure they’re prepared to cover various costs and live a comfortable lifestyle. Get organized in this area and have open discussions so that you can all get on the same page. Some older adults will have the capacity to manage financial or legal affairs but in the case that your parents can’t you must be there to help. Planning ahead will make it easier to deal with the future and whatever may pop up related to finances.

Mental Health & Socialization

When it comes to your parents aging, you also need to consider their mental health and social life. You want to make sure they are happy and stay engaged in life as best they can. They may feel isolated or lonely at times so it’s wise to get a feel for how they’re doing and to visit and stay in touch often. Make sure they’re participating in a variety of activities and keeping on a schedule instead of sleeping or sitting on the couch all day. It’s not only about their mental health and self-care for them but yours too. Make sure you don’t let your wellness slip through the cracks as you care for your parents.

Quality of Life

Getting older brings about many changes and this can be challenging to manage and accept. However, you have the power to help your aging parents in this area. Consider their quality of life and do what you can to help your older parents thrive. Think about issues as it relates to purpose, autonomy, and dignity. It might be helpful to consider what matters the most to your parents and is meaningful to them so that these needs can be met. You want them to feel as independent and in control of their life and health as possible without putting their safety at risk.

Independence

As you age, remaining independent can become a really tricky task. Having less energy and strength both physically and mentally speaking can have a serious impact on your ability to stay independent, so your parents could easily lose their independence if you don't take the time to help them in the most appropriate manner. One of the easiest ways to get around and ensure your parents can remain as independent as ever is by driving a car, but you must certify that your parents are in the right frame of mind and state of health to drive a car. Any accident attorney will tell you that such a large percentage of auto issues (crashes, smashes and other road problems) are directly caused by the actions of elderly drivers, so do not allow your parents to get behind the wheel if you don't think that their mind or body is up to the test. Public transport is also a brilliant option to stay independent without having to drive, as your elderly parents can take a bus, train or tram to reach their destination. Public transport is commonly free of charge for the elderly, too! 

Conclusion

These are some important considerations that should be top of mind for you as your parents age. It can be a tricky situation to navigate that may bring about additional stress and strain on the family. However, it’s no reason not to try your best and give it your all while your parents are still around. Help as much as you can but also remember to take good care of yourself in the process so you can be there for them. It can be a complicated and intricate endeavor but one you must face and learn to manage if you’re going to get through it together and in good spirits.