At some point in your life, it’s inevitable your aging parents may need care. It will be especially difficult if you are the only child and have your own kids to take care of. Caring for kids and parents at the same time can be a daunting task. But how to care for your aging parent does not have to be, if you follow these tips.
Panicking and stressing will not alleviate the situation. If you have room in your home, you could have either parent stay with you, as long as they are not seriously ill. In fact, it could be to your advantage to have them with you. Grandparents make great baby-sitters. Of course, you would have to plan the entire move with your family. Make sure you are all comfortable with not only the notion of having either his or your parents staying with you, but are well prepared and know how to care for your aging parent. Discussing this matter with your kids is essential. They have to be willing to give up part of their safe space as well.
On the other hand, if your parents have it in their minds not to move from their home or apartment, you may have to come up with an alternate plan. This plan depends upon the ages of your children. If you children are young, you may need to contact social services or meals-on-wheels in order for your parents to be properly cared for. If you have teenagers, they can be of enormous help by showing them how to care for your aging parent such as: making frequent trips to your parent’s home or apartment to ensure they are eating properly, and ensuring they have all their medications properly ordered.
In certain cultures, parents live with their kids until they pass. Unfortunately, in our culture there is this tendency to place aging parents in nursing homes. How to care for your aging parent greatly depends upon one’s circumstances. However, it is the norm, rather than the exception. Quite frankly, while it is a tough call, those of you who do accept responsibility for your parents will never regret it. After all, they took care of you all your young life; now it’s your turn.
You can care for your kids and parents at the same time if you prepare; discuss; and plan the movie in accordingly. Having other siblings to help would be advantageous by showing them how to care for your aging parent; but in most cases they either live too far away or refuse. Whatever the situation, be assured they are many avenues available to you in finding the proper resources to care for your parents, no matter what their physical condition may be.
