My Aging Parents Need Help!
What Do I Do?
Discovering that your aging parents need help to stay safe and healthy can be alarming! You are not alone. At some point, most of us will face the reality that our aging parents can no longer manage alone.
Determining their needs, understanding their options, and making decisions can feel overwhelming. Having a concrete plan can alleviate your concerns and allow you to feel more secure about their safety.
A Road Map to a Realistic Plan for Success!
Assess Your Parent's Needs & Include Them in the Process
Assess Your Parent's Needs & Include Them in the Process
Assess Your Parent's Needs & Include Them in the Process
- Determine what type of help is needed. Family support, home safety, medical needs, cognitive health, mobility, meals, personal hygiene, and social interaction.
- Involve your parent as much as possible.
Understand the Financial Situation
Assess Your Parent's Needs & Include Them in the Process
Assess Your Parent's Needs & Include Them in the Process
- Assess how much money is available for care.
- Pursue any other payor sources that are available.
Address Home Safety Issues
Assess Your Parent's Needs & Include Them in the Process
Evaluate Your Own Needs & Abilities
- Remove safety hazards in the house.
- Make modifications that minimize fall risks.
- Arrage a professional home safety evaluation.
Evaluate Your Own Needs & Abilities
Evaluate Your Own Needs & Abilities
Evaluate Your Own Needs & Abilities
- Assess your physical ability to provide the care needed.
- Honestly consider whether you have the time and personality to provide care.
Explore Care Options Available
Evaluate Your Own Needs & Abilities
Ensure Accessible Communication
- A geriactric care manager is a professional who can guide you to community services and resources.
- An in-home care provider is a licensed professional agency that can provide one-on-one care to alleviate the stress and give you peace of mind.
Ensure Accessible Communication
Evaluate Your Own Needs & Abilities
Ensure Accessible Communication
Consider a personal emergency response system.