Home Health Care for Elderly Parents
Home care of elderly parents can be very rewarding. Adult children and young grandchildren may benefit from the advice and perspective of an older person. Elderly adults may enjoy the vitality and energy of younger family members. Caring for elderly parents at home also involves some issues that could cause unhealthy stress if you are not adequately prepared.
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Medical Care
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Be prepared for the increasing medical needs of elderly parents. Your parents may need insulin shots for diabetes or may need other medications monitored. Elderly persons sometimes need transportation to doctor's appointments and benefit from having another person there to listen to the instructions and advice of the doctor.
Hygiene
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Pay attention to the appearance and personal hygiene of elderly parents, as changes for the worse may be signs of deteriorating health. Be willing to offer help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing and shampooing, which may become challenging for elderly parents. Install railings, shower seats and slip-resistant mats in the tub or shower if bathing or showering becomes difficult for your elderly parent. Assist elderly parents in shopping for clothing that is comfortable, lightweight and as free of buttons, snaps and zippers as possible.
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Cost
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Prepare for the cost of caring for elderly parents at home. Factor in things like time taken off of work because of doctor's appointments and other responsibilities. Do not forget the cost of things like wheelchairs and walkers, ramps or railings that may be needed to make a home more accessible and home health care workers, if necessary.
Social Interaction
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Be aware that your elderly parents, just like everyone else, benefit from social interaction. Give them the opportunity to socialize with their peers. Encourage your parents to invite friends to play games, enjoy snacks or simply watch movies. Also, become familiar with the schedule of events of the local senior center. If your parents show interest in an activity, offer to transport them, if necessary.
Stress
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Caring for your elderly parents at home can cause unexpected stress. Adult children are often unprepared for the tasks they must complete as their parents age. Some people are embarrassed by helping elderly parents bathe or use the bathroom. Others are not prepared for changes in their elderly parents---everything from limited movement because of arthritis to the onslaught of dementia. These stresses can cause people to react in surprising ways. The American Psychological Association's Office on Aging claims that "most elder abuse and neglect takes place at home" and is "related to changes in living situations and relationships brought about by the older person's growing frailty and dependence on others for companionship and for meeting basic needs."
Do not ignore mounting stresses or other concerns that may arise while caring for your parents at home. Brainstorm a list of people who can relieve the primary caregiver whenever necessary. Hire a private nurse if an elderly parent needs a lot of medical care. If things get too difficult, research local nursing homes, which usually offer healthy opportunities for social interaction as well as quality medical care.
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