There comes a time in the lives of most adults where the roles in the family is reversed.  Our parents looked after us, it’s our to care for them as they age.  It can take time to adjust to the new roles.  Aging parents have difficulty relinquishing control and allowing their children to look after them.  So, it can be tricky to navigate the delicate balance between child and parent.  Luckily, our parenting tips on caring for aging parents will help on your quest for better health and quality of life:

1. Discuss Their Needs Openly

First, you need first to understand what they need.  Having an understanding of their needs will help you devise a plan.  While you might believe you know this information, having their input is imperative. After all, they know what they want and why they want it. You may feel you need to accompany your parents on every outing.  However, they might crave their independence and doing things for themselves.  As a result, it’s important that everyone in the family discuss how they feel openly.  Take the time to talk to your parents as a family unit and decide together the best course of action.

2. Assess Living Conditions

If your aging parents still live in their home, you may worry about the likelihood of them falling or injuring themselves.  Furthermore, you may worry about them feeding themselves as they grow increasingly frail.  It’s quite likely your parents wish to remain in their homes as long as possible.  So, it’s up to you to assess their home and make adjustments as needed. Does your parent need help managing daily medication?  One way to assist is to arrange their medication into boxes which are clearly labeled for each day.

Additionally, are your parents struggling to go upstairs? You could consider a stairlift to ensure they are safe with when they go up and down stairs.  Simply put, making these changes will help keep them safe and living in their own space longer.

3. Seek Additional Help

There are times we have to accept that we cannot do it alone.  Caring for aging parents can be difficult.  Especially, when we have a full time job, caring for our children, and ensuring we care for ourselves.  It can lead to feeling overwhelmed and under pressure. However, there’s no shame in seeking additional help.  For example, seek help from those who are specially trained to care for the needs of older adults.  With the permission of your parents, why not consider someone who will visit daily to help them wash, cook, and take their medication.

However, your parents might require extra help.  If your parents need home health care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week there are people who can assist.  Choosing a home health care provider is something you need to do as a family.

After all, your parents are the ones who will be living there.  So, their happiness is paramount. Unfortunately, there are rising cases of elder abuse.  Weight loss, depression, and withdrawal could be signs of abuse.  Luckily, there are specialist elder abuse lawyers such as Garcia Law, who you can turn to for help in these situations.

Caring for aging parents can be a full-time job.  But, you can request additional help to ensure a better quality of life for both you and your parents.  It is recommended, that speak to your parents before making any decisions on their behalf.  Always take their wishes into account.