It can be difficult to take care of elderly parents. Especially if our days are hectic and full of obligations. They may need help with basic activities like bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom. They may also require assistance with meals, taking medication, and managing finances. But there are ways that you can make their lives easier and more comfortable. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for helping your elderly parents live a happy and stress-free life!
Our elderly need us when they come to age
Our elderly have spent their entire lives working, securing, and providing for themselves, as well as others. Once they retire, they officially have all of the time in the world to devote to themselves. However, usually, when retirement comes, our bodies start to weaken. When this happens, it is important that there is someone that can provide support and assistance. Today, we will help you understand the importance of helping your elderly. Most importantly, we are going to help you learn what you can do for them, from installing a stair lift to making sure all of their needs are fulfilled. There is a lot you can do, and there is no end to the help you can provide to your loved elderly parents. Your parents have always been there for you, now it’s time to return the favor.
Install equipment they will use regularly
If your parents live in a multi-story home, climbing up and down the stairs can be daunting and dangerous. A stair lift will allow them to move around their home safely and without worry. Moreover, many elders start having issues with their legs, as well as spines at that age. So, having help going up and down the stairs will be more than welcome. On the other hand, you can also install other useful equipment, like grab bars in the bathroom or a walk-in tub. These will help your parents feel more independent and capable, as well as safe while they move around their home. You can also get them a wheelchair ramp to help them move around more easily, as well as a walk-in bathtub, which can be very helpful for those who have difficulty bathing. These are just some of the ways you can make your parents’ life easier by installing equipment that they will use on a regular basis.
Hire a caregiver
If your parents need help with basic activities like bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom, hiring a caregiver can be a lifesaver. Caregivers can also help with meals, medication, and finances. Of course, you can do this all on your own, if you want, but this can be a really big responsibility. Hiring a caregiver should be something you should do only after you consult your budget, and ensure this can work. Most importantly, it is crucial that you find a reliable caregiver that you can trust. Do your research and find someone who has experience caring for elderly parents. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that your parents are in good hands when you can’t be there yourself.
Provide transportation
If they are no longer able to drive, offer to take them where they need to go. This includes doctor appointments, grocery shopping, and social events. You can also hire a professional caregiver to drive them around if you are not able to do so yourself. On the other hand, you can use this as a good way to create a stronger bond with your elder parent. Sometimes, you can either go somewhere together or join them in their current plans. However, generally speaking, the simple act of helping them get from one point to another will be more than enough for them to appreciate your help. Providing transportation can help your elderly parents feel safe and secure. Especially since their physical capabilities start to decrease.
Help them with general chores and errands they have to complete
This may include laundry, cleaning the house, and running errands. In addition, this would also include things like paying their bills, getting their groceries, and anything else they may need help with. You can either do this yourself or hire a professional caregiver to do it for them. Doing these things will help your parents feel more capable and independent. In addition, it will also give you some quality time together that you can use to catch up and bond. Most importantly, many of these things will require both physical and mental strength, so it might be better for you to do it. After all, there is a low chance your elder parents would stand in a line for an hour.
Assist them with activities of daily living
Another way you can help your elderly parents is by assisting them with activities of daily living. This includes things like bathing, dressing, using the restroom, and eating. If your elderly parents live nearby, you should try to stop by on a daily basis and see what type of daily things need to be done. Usually, these things will pose little to no issue for younger generations, while our elders require a lot of effort to complete it.
Provide them with at least one day a week of spending time outdoors
Of course, your elder parents should spend more time outdoors, as much as they can. However, we are thinking more of a picnic or a small road trip type outdoors. Something that will require several hours of spending time in nature, and relaxing. Stress is also a big factor when it comes to the elderly, so this will also be a good way of helping them relax and de-stress. If you are able to do this on a weekly basis, then that would be great. However, if not, then try to at least do it once a month.
Helping your elderly parents can be difficult, but it’s definitely worth the effort. By providing transportation, helping with general chores and errands, assisting them with activities of daily living, and spending at least one day a week outdoors, you can make their lives much easier and more comfortable. Do your research and find a reliable caregiver that you can trust to help out when you’re not able to be there yourself. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your parents are in good hands.
