Aging Parents and the Desire to Stay at Home

Homecare Lexington NC

Your aging parent has made it clear that they want to stay in their home as they age. You’ve noticed some tell-tale signs that suggest it will be difficult for them, in the near future, to perform all the necessary tasks that living alone requires. You want to honor your parent’s request, but you’re not really sure if it is in your abilities to do so. The best advice is from those that have been in your shoes: Live one day at a time. Plan for tomorrow, and expect tomorrow to not go as planned. “My entire life can be described in one sentence: it didn’t go as planned, and that’s ok.”—Rachel Wolchin

The Plan

What do they need help with right now? What might they need help with in the near future? Do they have an illness that will require specific help as it progresses? Plan accordingly. Put a daily schedule together of all needed support. Right now they need help only a few hours a day. In a year, they may need full time assistance. Be honest in your assessment.

Personal Hygiene

Are they still able to bathe, dress, shave, and wash their hair? If not, can you or another family member help out a few hours every day? Develop a caregiving team. Maybe three of you can provide assistance two to three days a week. If there are not enough hands to go around, consider hiring a homecare provider a few hours a day to assist your parent and provide companionship.

Transportation

Do they need help getting out and about? Do they need assistance with grocery shopping, transportation to appointments, rides to social events or classes at the local senior center? More and more grocery stores are offering free delivery services. Most communities offer free transportation for seniors that is staffed by volunteers. A homecare provider can also shop for groceries and provide transportation.

Homemaking

Is your parent able to safely prepare their own meals, clean their home and do the laundry? Laundry services are available either for a drop off fee or pick up for dry cleaning. There are a multitude of healthy meal delivery options. A housekeeper can be hired once a week. A homecare provider can assist with all of these needs.

Once you’re aware of what their needs are, you realize there are several options available that will fill them. With careful planning between you, your caregiving team and your parent, staying at home can usually be a viable option for your loved one.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Homecare Services in Lexington NC, please contact the caring staff at Tender Hearted Home Care today. (704) 612-4132.