Taking an elderly parent into your home and caring for them can be a stressful time for any family. Often this move for parents is because they are beginning to be physically or mentally impaired in some way. Part of the stress is the concern for their safety and health and what you may be responsible for in future. Here are some ways to ensure their safety and increase your own peace of mind as you embark on this journey together.
Parents Who Are Physically Disabled
If your parents are physically handicapped, they will need extra help to carry out daily activities. There are many safety devices available to make it easier for getting around in your home. Wheelchairs and other medical equipment can be provided by Medicare when a physician has prescribed their use so ask about what you may be qualified for. Other equipment is also available at medical supply stores, and can occasionally be found at discount stores and second-hand stores at a much lower price.
Parents who are still able to walk may have weakened limbs, or may have balance problems. A walker placed in their bedroom can be of great benefit in helping them to move around on their own. Safety rails placed on the bed and grab bars in the bathroom can also help to stabilize them, when getting up or taking a shower. Make sure they are installed correctly and at the right heights.
Parents Who Are Mentally Disabled
Parents who are beginning to have memory problems will need help taking medication. They will require supervision which will have to increase as they age. It’s very important not to leave a parent who has memory problems unsupervised in the kitchen, or in other areas where burn or safety risk is a factor. When taking the memory impaired out for any reason, it is best to avoid large crowds where the elderly can become confused and supervision becomes difficult.
Day care centers for the elderly can provide age appropriate activities for the memory impaired, while allowing you a little time for yourself. They are especially helpful for those with Alzheimer’s, where the goal is to retain as much memory as possible for as long as possible. As Alzheimer’s progresses, wandering can become a problem as well. It is very important to have increased home security so elderly who are beset by this condition do not become confused and leave the home. A home security system like the ones on Northstar alarm reviews which can be controlled by a touchpad security code, are very helpful for insuring that a parent with Alzheimer’s will not wander outside. Security gates placed in key areas in the home can also be very beneficial.
Parents who have mid-term Alzheimer’s may need the help of a nurses’ aide. Nurses’ aides are employed at many home health care agencies and are trained in helping older people with memory problems. Check your insurance to see if they will help with the cost of employment.
Staying Educated
One of the best things to do when taking care of parents in your home, is to take advantage of as many opportunities to learn about elderly caregiving as possible. There is a lot of research available online to help you, as well as forums where people share their own experiences and ideas. Another very helpful resource is assisted living facilities and nursing homes in your area. They will usually have someone who can give you advice if you are having a difficult problem in caregiving. Churches with senior ministries can also give practical help and can guide you to social organizations that assist in taking care of the elderly.
Caring for an elderly parent can be a blessing instead of a worry. Many children who care for elderly parents say a close relationship is fused with them at this critical time, and provides lasting memories for adults and kids alike.
