Many people have aging parents to care for. They may be elderly, sick or both. There are several resources and support available for caregivers. Here are a few things to consider when caring for an elderly parent.
Limited mobility
Limited mobility comes with age, and commode chairs can help. Bathrooms can be dangerous to the elderly, especially those with limited mobility. Senior walkers can also help those with limited mobility. It would ensure they are able to move around their house relatively unassisted.
You should discuss your options with a health care professional, as there are various choices you can choose from. If you go with a bedside commode, a nightlight would be a good companion to make sure they do not bump into it at night.
Social contact
Calling your aging parents often is a good idea, especially if they are limited in mobility and cannot drive themselves anymore as they used to be able to. The forced isolation may cause loneliness, and keeping in regular contact will help give them the social contact they need and want. Be sure to ask them how they are feeling and if there has been any updates in their health, memory and general well-being.
Another way to keep in touch with them is by social media. If they can see pictures and videos of you and the grandkids on a regular basis, it might help them feel more included and part of your lives.
Similar to when you were kids and they arranged playdates for you, also consider arranging senior days for them where they can meet and mingle with friends over cards, coffee or bingo.
Sandwich generation
The pressure is huge for the sandwich generation, those with both aging parents and young children to take care of. There is no right answer for such a quandary. The best thing you can do is to first take care of yourself and make sure you are not running ragged.
Remember you have to be healthy and well in order to take care of anyone else. When flying commercial, they always remind you to put on your air mask first. The same idea applies. Make sure you do not forget to take care of yourself and your needs first. There are also others in the sandwich generation and support groups may be available around you. It can be helpful to talk and share with others in your similar plight.
These are just some things to consider when you take care of your elderly parents.
