Roles reverse for parents and their children at a certain point in life. Adult children often face the challenge of caring for their parents when they become elderly. There is much to consider when assuming responsibility for older people, especially when they are your loved ones. Caretakers must carefully develop a plan for their parents' care while taking into consideration and being respectful of both their needs and desires.
Step 1
Determine the best living arrangement for your elderly parent. Assess with him whether he is capable of continuing to live independently with occasional assistance or if full-time care is required. Weigh the pros and cons of having him live with you, in an assisted living facility of some type or in his current residence with a full time nurse or caretaker and whether modifications to the home need to be made. In some situations, you may consider moving into his residence or establishing a new home for you and your parent and, perhaps, others in the family.
Step 2
Schedule regular physicals and health assessments for your older parent. Keep a medical file of information including current medications, test results, X-rays and other pertinent data. If she does not have insurance, you may need to help her apply for Medicare or Medicaid or both. Research and help her choose insurance and drug plans when there are options so she may obtain the best medical care.
Step 3
Look at transportation needs in regard to your parent. Is he capable of continuing to drive a vehicle? Discuss what options for traveling are feasible for your parent's situation. Look into public and private options and also consider a rotating schedule for family members to assume driving your parent to places he needs or desires to go.
Step 4
Assess the nutritional and exercise needs of your parent. Look at her typical meals and discuss with her and a nutritionist whether some changes in diet are needed based on medical needs. Consider whether she is able to cook for herself, whether she needs meals delivered or has access to a cafeteria within her living community. Exercise is important as well. Talk with your parent about a regular program of whatever she enjoys. Some examples are "mall walking," water aerobics and other senior programs offered at YMCAs and other facilities.
Step 5
Discuss long term issues with your elderly parent. You need to have input and clarity regarding such concerns as budgeting, wills, his wishes regarding medical situations including living wills and the granting of power of attorney to an individual. Your parent also may have specific wishes regarding the end of his life, including funeral and burial plans. Finances are also a difficult subject to broach, but it is necessary to know what the parent can afford in his later years.
Step 6
Keep a calendar of appointments. Mark down doctor visits, social engagements, hair salon visits, grocery and other shopping and other events. At this point, you may be serving as both parent to teens or younger children as well as helping care for your own parent, so you will need to stay organized.
Step 7
Assist your parent in maintaining social relationships with family and friends. Look for opportunities for him to engage in fun activities that promote close relationships. It is not uncommon for seniors to feel isolated, so providing such stimulus is often needed. Make sure accommodations are made based on his physical needs so he is comfortable during outings.
