Families want their elderly loved ones to thrive in a supportive and fulfilling environment. However, they may be unable to provide this environment due to other commitments. In this situation, they may look into senior living communities. When doing so, how can they support their elderly parent’s needs and ensure the selected community will do the same? How can they support the parent’s needs if they choose to keep them at home?
Safety First
Whether the senior remains at home or opts for assisted living arrangements, their safety must remain the top priority. Falls are a leading cause of injuries in seniors, so the family or community must identify risks and find solutions to mitigate them. Assistive devices or changes to the home’s layout are two ways to reduce these risks, and there are countless others. Walk-in showers, no-step entries, and grab bars are three features to consider for a bathroom, and ramps are ideal for the entryway and anywhere the senior may need to transition between levels.
Comfort
Seniors deserve a comfortable living environment. Choose stylish furnishings with ergonomic designs to support them. Arrange the furniture to ensure they have clear pathways and can move easily around their home. Install additional lighting to boost visibility. Consider adding automatic lights that turn on when they enter the room and off when they leave so they can easily see where they are going.
Technology
Smart home devices benefit many seniors. They increase the individual’s safety while promoting independence. Seniors find they can easily manage their environment with these devices. A medical alert system allows them to call or help in an emergency, and technology ensures they can stay connected with loved ones, including those who don’t live nearby.
Medical Care
Seniors must deal with the effects of aging and may struggle with illnesses, injuries, or chronic health conditions. Family members must help them navigate their medical needs to maintain their dignity and quality of life. Family members can help the seniors understand their healthcare coverage including the cost of hearing aids and other assistive devices, and coordinate with medical professionals to ensure they get the care they need promptly. In addition, family members can set up a system so the seniors know what medications to take and when. This system can also be used to help them track healthcare appointments.
A Healthy Lifestyle
Families need to help their loved ones live healthy lifestyles. They need a balanced diet, regular exercise, and plenty of sleep. Assisted living facilities help them achieve these goals, but families should also emphasize the importance of these things to good overall health while the senior remains at home. Regular socialization opportunities help prevent cognitive decline and dementia.
Estate Planning
Every person, regardless of age, needs an estate plan. This plan outlines their wishes should they become incapacitated and details what they wish to happen to their assets when they pass. In addition to a will, every person should have a power of attorney and an advance healthcare directive. Furthermore, they need to have a financial plan in place to pay for long-term care.
Support Systems
Caregivers need support systems to thrive. Caregiver burnout remains a concern. To prevent this, individuals must maintain a healthy lifestyle and set boundaries. They should practice relaxation techniques and ask for help when overwhelmed. Caregivers need to proactively protect their health and well-being to provide their aging parents with the highest level of care.
Children must take these steps today to provide their loved ones with the highest care. Caring for aging parents isn’t easy, particularly when the children have families of their own. However, parents need this care as they raised their families. Now, it is time to reciprocate. Families who take the above steps find it easier to provide care without overwhelming themselves.
