Kathy Chapman https://www.elderoptionsoftexas.com 2m 548 #ageing
The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.
It can be tough watching your parents get older. It is a fact of life that we all get older, and as our parents get on in years, they may need additional help to continue getting the most out of life. It can also be challenging to navigate the role reversal as you start to fulfill a caretaking role in their lives.
It is crucial to ensure your parents have dignity and comfort in their old age. You should also ensure that any actions you take to help them out are welcome. If your parents are particularly stubborn, this can cause frustration, but you should make your best effort to try to win them around and avoid arguments.
Remember They Are Adults
The shift from ‘cared for’ to caregiver can make people forget their parents are adults, especially when they need extra help. Being treated like children causes feelings of anger, frustration and resentment. Don’t make decisions for your parents, instead help them work through their options and encourage them to make the best decisions.
Encourage Them To Take Up New Hobbies
Try a few different ways to help keep your parents’ minds sharp. Reading, learning a language and puzzles are excellent ways to hone cognitive skills. Physical hobbies like gardening, knitting and exercising are excellent ways to keep the mind and body active.
Go On Vacation Together
Spend time with your parents, creating strong memories that will last you and them for a lifetime. Include them on family vacations to help them tick items off their bucket lists. Ask them where they want to go and do.
Adapt Their Home
Staying in familiar surroundings is vital. Assess your parents’ home and identify any risk areas. Adapt the space to make it suitable for their different needs. For instance, install a downstairs bathroom and toilet, grab rails or move their bed downstairs.
Choose Dependable Caregivers
If you cannot commit to being a primary caregiver, seek out qualified professionals to take your place. Consider looking outside of the US to find a suitable candidate. Conduct careful background checks to find someone trustworthy. Ensure you understand how to hire a foreign caregiver and what kind of visa you need. Get in touch with a reliable immigration law firm like Farmer Law PC to find out more.
Keep Them Connected
Keep your parents connected with your children and the wider family. Host regular get-togethers where everyone can spend time bonding.
Join A Support Group
Caring for ageing parents can be stressful. Prioritize your own wellbeing, which will make you able to give the best care. Age-related conditions like dementia can create personality changes in older people, making the experience even more distressing. Joining a support group allows you to work through your emotions in a safe, understanding environment.
Teach Them About Technology
Technology is an excellent way for your parents to stay connected with family and friends. Teach them about the technology they can use, such as video calling software and social media.
Exercise Together
Keeping physically active can help prevent various common ailments as we grow older. Encourage your parents to get moving by going for long walks together or taking gentle classes such as yoga.
(
