By 2040, 22.6 percent of the United States population will be considered elderly, estimates the University of Missouri. The term "graying" has been coined for the aging of the general population, and with this graying comes the need for caregivers. If you have an elderly loved one who needs care, you might feel obligated to take over the responsibility of a caregiver. Making sure that you communicate the need to your family and your elderly family member can help you plan and give care without hurt feelings or resistance.
Step 1
Arrange a time and place to meet with the rest of your family about the necessity of care for your elderly family member. You'll want to make sure that you have everyone's blessing before you assume the role. In speaking with the family, you can identify some of their concerns, as well as present evidence that proves your elderly family member needs care, such as memory loss, physical injury or the need for companionship.
Step 2
Talk to your elderly family member and make a proposition for care. Share your feelings on the topic, suggests the U.S. Department of State, and let them know how much you love him and want him to be safe. Ask for input on the level of care, if you can, to make a care schedule that will work for both of you. If you are met with resistance, work around it by coming up with a solution you're both happy with, like part-time hospice care or a daily check-in.
Talk to the elderly family member about their living will, power of attorney and making sure that all legal issues are taken care of before you assume care, to ensure that your family member's wishes are carried out satisfactorily, and you have the authority to make decisions in behalf of your charge.
Step 3
If you don't have it, get the necessary training to care for an elderly family member who may need medical care. Basic training in CPR and caring methods, taught at local hospitals or community centers, can help you feel more confident in your role.
Step 4
Establish your role as a caregiver by doing your job well. Give your family updates by letting them know how the care is going and how your elderly family member is faring. Make the lifestyle changes necessary to care for your family member, like arranging your schedule, moving into their home or arranging for substitute care when you are not able.
Step 5
Accompany your elderly family member to a doctor's appointment so you can ask questions about the need for medical care, medications and treatment. Ask the doctor for warning signs of a problem so that you know when you should call for emergency help or arrange for another doctor's appointment. Make sure that they have health insurance or Medicare in place, recommends FamilyCareGiving101.org.
Step 6
Ask for help when you need it. Becoming the caregiver for an elderly family member can be a physically and emotionally draining job. Working yourself too hard could leave you feeling resentful toward your family members. Engage other family members to come lend a hand, or look into respite care so you can take a break when you need it.
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