February 18, 2020 | Advance Care Planning, Aging Life Care
As you see the aging process affecting your parents’ quality of life, you might be concerned about how to meet their needs going forward. Many people ask themselves: where do I turn for care for my aging parents?
While many aging care resources are available, it can be overwhelming to choose the services that best fit the needs of your loved ones. As you are evaluating your options, consider the following factors to arrive at an optimal treatment plan:
- What Does Your Parent Need? Start by looking at your parent’s needs in terms of everyday support and medical care. Key areas of support include personal hygiene, cognitive health, home safety, medical treatments, nutrition, transportation, social interaction, and more.
- How Can Family Help? Evaluate your schedule and abilities as well as those of your family members who might be available to help. Do you have the time and willingness to provide physical support, such as living with the person or making frequent visits? Sometimes adult children can step in as caregivers, but you should be careful to avoid burnout.
- Care Location Decisions: It is better for the person to receive support in the home, or will their needs be served more effectively in a senior living environment like an assisted living facility? If your parent wants to “age in place” at home, you can look for licensed home care providers in the local area that can help with meals, bathing, dressing, and more. Alternatively, it might make sense to find an assisted living community where your parent can have access to social activities with people their age while also receiving support for their daily living needs.
- Collaborative Approach: It can be hard for a parent to feel like they are losing control of their life. Aging can take a toll on independence. The best thing you can do is maintain open communication about the options so your parent can provide their input and preferences.
The Answers: Find Care for My Aging Parents
You don’t need to face these difficult decisions without support. It can be helpful to work with an Aging Life Care™ Manager to evaluate senior living facilities and in-home services that can meet the needs of your loved one. At Windward Life Care, we assist in helping you find the right providers. Contact us for a conversation so you can learn about available options.