Caring For Elderly Parents At Home: 5 Things You Should Do to Prepare

Aging is an inevitable fact of life, and it affects all families. The elderly understandably need help during the latest chapter of their lives, and it’s only natural to provide them comfort and understanding just as they have offered their love and care to us while we were young.

Even for elderly parents that are living independently and in good health, there will come a time when aging takes its toll. When that time comes, you will need to provide them with special long-term care. 

Caring for your elderly parents at home is a wonderful thing. However, it may pose a challenge and risk for your elderly parents if you don’t have the right setup in your home. Here are some things that you can do to prepare yourself better:

1. Learn First Aid and be ready to act.

When caring for your elderly parents at home, being prepared for injuries and other medical emergencies is essential. Signing up for a First Aid training course, such as the ones offered by Australia Wide First Aid, will help you understand the challenges of becoming a senior, as well as gain a better understanding of the ways that you can extend your help for your elderly parents.

Seniors tend to be more vulnerable to accidents and injuries since they often lack flexibility, strength, and alertness. They often tend to have bone problems, as well, such as osteoporosis. It is critical that you keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand and know how to use it in case of health emergencies and accidents. 

2. Make sure your home is senior-friendly.

One of the most important ways you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your elderly parents is to make adjustments to your home that can help reduce risks and accidents. You will need to consider your parents’ personal space. Furthermore, safety concerns such as clutter, bed height, lighting, and navigation should be considered — especially if they’re using a wheelchair.

For homes with multiple levels or unique architectural features, ensuring safe and easy navigation between floors is paramount. Traditional stairs can become a significant barrier, increasing the risk of falls and limiting independence. In such cases, specialized mobility aids can make a profound difference, allowing elderly parents to remain in their familiar surroundings. Exploring custom curved stairlift options can provide a tailored solution for even the most challenging staircases, including spiral or narrow designs. These bespoke installations are designed to fit the exact contours of a home, offering a secure and comfortable way to move between floors without the need for extensive renovations.

3. Evaluate the financial impact.

Another important consideration to make is the financial impact that this type of care will have on your finances, as well as that of your parents. Think about the special medical care they need, the changes you’ll need to apply in your home, and everyday expenses like food, caregiving supplies, personal needs, and more.

Depending on your current financial situation, you may even consider leaving your job to stay home and take care of your parents. However, you’d be giving up benefits such as health insurance, etc.

4. Don’t forget your own health, needs, and capabilities.

In order to provide proper care for your aging parents, you need to make sure you are at your best as well. Find ways to nourish your body and spirit so you always have a sufficient amount of stamina, energy, and resources to give your elderly parents the proper care and attention they need. Keep in mind that if you ‘bite off more than you can chew’, you will eventually burn out and develop serious health conditions yourself — which will, in the end, leave you unable to care for anyone.

5. Communicate with your parents about their needs and opinions.

No one likes to lose control of their life, especially someone who’s already concerned about losing their independence. It is crucial to involve your parents as much as possible when you’re planning for their care. It also helps to keep the conversation open and gentle so your parents feel like they’re part of every decision instead of having choices made for them. And in moments when the options feel overwhelming, families can turn to Senior Living Advisors who can guide them through assisted-living choices and help match their parents with communities that meet their care needs and lifestyle preferences.

Additionally, you need to take your parents’ needs into consideration. Many seniors may start feeling isolated and at risk of depression. Make sure that they stay socially involved with other people their age, or at least engage in hobbies that make them feel more active. You can achieve this by letting them volunteer in the local community, share meals with other seniors, or indulge in arts and crafts.

4. Taking care of your elderly parents at home is an opportunity to create more memories with them.

There are several challenges and precautionary measures to take when deciding on caring for your elderly parents at home. By doing this, however, you’re providing your parents with the same form of love, care, and respect that they’ve given you during your own younger years.