As our loved ones age, you may end up taking on the role of caregiver. Caring for aging parents involves a multitude of responsibilities that require careful consideration and planning for the road ahead. Because the complexities of caregiving are different for each family, there may be challenges that you never expected to face. In this blog, we’ll explore seven aspects of providing care for elderly family members in the hope that you may feel better prepared for the unexpected.
1. Home Safety and Accessibility:
Maintaining a clean and safe living environment is crucial for the wellbeing of aging parents. As mobility and energy levels may decline, it’s essential to adapt the home to meet their changing needs.
Consider making some adjustments around the home, either on your own or by hiring a task service or handyperson. These adjustments could include better lighting or accessibility modifications like ramps, a chair lift, or handrails. Additionally, you could hire a cleaning service to declutter to help reduce the risk of falls.
2. Courier Services:
Aging parents may experience difficulties in running errands, especially if they’re in a hospital or an assisted living facility. Utilizing a courier service can bridge the gap. Explore local services or apps that offer courier services for anything you may need delivered quickly, for example, groceries, medication, personal items, or legal documents. As opposed to using a parcel carrier like UPS or the postal service, a courier is a person or company that provides point to point all-inclusive delivery services in the shortest time possible.
3. Driving Courses:
As aging begins to affect one’s cognitive and physical abilities, it can be a good time to address driving concerns. Consider enrolling your parent(s) in a senior driving course meant to update older drivers on their skills and knowledge.
If you’re concerned about safety, you can research local transportation services for seniors who may no longer drive. Some towns provide these types of shuttles for free. You could also work to arrange an Uber or Lyft if safety is a concern.
4. Wealth Management:
Managing finances can become increasingly complex as parents age. A financial advisor can help you and your parents understand their financial situation and help plan for the future. A financial advisor can help them understand the feasibility of supporting their lifestyle and the pros and cons of various financial decisions. Additionally, a financial advisor can coordinate with an estate planning attorney to ensure that the necessary legal documents like wills, trusts, powers of attorney and health care directives are in order and assets are in alignment with the intended estate plan.
It’s helpful to have conversations about who will be helping to care for mom and dad, if there are multiple siblings, before it gets to a point of needing an active power of attorney. A wealth advisor can facilitate a family meeting to help confirm that everyone is on the same page and there is a plan in place.
5. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) and Assisted Living:
For those considering a transition to a retirement community, CCRCs offer a continuum of care that can adapt to changing needs. In cases where more intensive care is required, assisted living facilities can provide a supportive environment for a variety of cognitive and medical conditions.
Be sure to stay actively involved in your parents’ care, participating in care plans and communication with facility staff. Also, to better make informed decisions, be sure to investigate the costs and financial implications of moving your parents to a CCRC or assisted living facility.
6. Long-Term Care Insurance Claim Assistance:
In the case your parents have long-term care insurance, understanding the complexities of their benefits can be daunting. Seek professional assistance to help navigate the insurance claim process and help optimize any benefits. The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance provides resources and educational information to help you wrap your head around long-term care. Additionally, a financial advisor can often work with you or your parents to file claims.
7. Caregiving Support:
Providing emotional and physical support is a central aspect of caring for aging parents. Caregiving is a daunting, stressful task and often the well-being of a caregiver can be forgotten. Rest, exercise, proper nutrition, and mental health breaks can be essential to avoiding burnout.
Arrange for short-term caregiving support to give yourself a break and prevent caregiver fatigue. Additionally, consider joining local or online support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges.
Caring for aging parents is a multifaceted journey that requires careful planning and a proactive approach. By addressing each aspect of their needs, from their physical environment to finances and healthcare considerations, you can help ensure a higher quality of life for your loved ones in their golden years. Remember that seeking support, both professionally and personally, is one of the key components to maintaining the wellbeing of both caregivers and their aging parents.
