You probably remember when you were a child sitting on your mother’s knee and hearing her tell you a story, or smelling your father’s pipe as he walked in the room. These are fond memories you will cherish forever. There comes a time, however, when the parent becomes the child and must be cared for. It is becoming increasingly common for elderly parents to move in with their adult children to be cared for. Nursing and senior homes are expensive, and unfortunately, there have been many cases of elder abuse in these homes.
When you take in one or both of your parents, there are some things that you should consider. If you work outside the home, you will have to provide care for the hours you are not there. If they need medication you’ll need to learn how to administer it. You may have to install some safety features in your home, like gates or handles in your bathtub.
If you have children to care for as well, you could find yourself feeling overwhelmed very quickly. If the children are old enough, they may be able to help you, but if not, you are going to have a heavy burden on your shoulders. Here are some tips to help you stay sane under all of the pressure.
• Find a good doctor: make sure your parent has a good doctor and knows of your living situation
• Have a good support system: find people that you can talk to and will listen. Some good options are your family, friends and church. They don’t necessarily have to understand what you’re going through, as long as they will listen.
• Find some nurses: Your doctor will be able to get you in touch with any resources that you need to help you. Nurses can help with bathing or medication or any other need you wish.
• Find some quality time together: Create moments that you will cherish forever. If possible, go out for walks or just talk. Ask them about their childhood or do a family tree together. Maybe they could share some favourite recipes with you.
• Find time for yourself: You will need a break every now and then; don’t hesitate to take some time and rejuvenate.Even 20 minutes in a hot bath with some candles and a good book can go a long way to refreshing your spirit. Yoga, meditation and prayer are also great ways to refresh your spirit.
• Get some life insurance: no one likes to think about it, but you have to know that your elderly parent is protected and cared for if something happens to you. Life insurance rates are very reasonable and you can search online for a quote if you don’t already have a policy.
It is not easy caring for an elderly parent, and sometimes you might feel like you are being pulled in a hundred different directions. It can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life and you will feel great knowing that you made your parent’s last days as comfortable as possible.