Taking care of elderly parents: Essential tips for support

Taking on the role of caregiver for aging parents is a significant and deeply personal responsibility. As our loved ones grow older, they may face various physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges that require support and assistance. Providing care for senior parents can be both rewarding and overwhelming, as it demands careful planning, open communication, and a deep understanding of our parents’ evolving needs. Whether you are just starting to consider your parents’ future care needs or are already in the midst of providing support, this guide aims to provide valuable insights and practical advice to ease the process.

Tips for taking care of the elderly

Be prepared for anything with our guide on how to care for elderly parents.

Assess the Current Situation

Initiate open and honest discussions with your parents about their wishes for their future care. It’s best to have these conversations before a crisis occurs, as it allows everyone to be prepared.

In these conversations, your goal is to understand your parents’ long-term needs. First, you must learn about their care-related needs. Do they have a health condition? Medications? Specialized care? Are there any potential safety concerns?

Next, you’ll need to find out how their finances are, including what resources are available. Do they have life insurance? Health insurance? How are their retirement funds? Do they have any outstanding debt?

Identify the Gaps

Once you get a grasp of what they need and what resources are available, you can start identifying the gaps. Make a checklist of their needs, against the costs, your resources, and what else needs to be done.

It’s also best to discuss their plans for their future living situation early on. Do they plan on selling their existing home to live in a new, more accessible one? Or would they be better off living with you?

This is also the time to collect and organize important documents such as medical records, legal papers, insurance policies, and financial information. This will make it easier to access and share necessary information when needed.

It would be helpful — and potentially life-saving — to have an emergency plan in place. Make sure you have contact information for emergency services, healthcare providers, and family members. Keep a list of medications, allergies, and medical conditions handy.

This stage of planning for their future care may be especially touchy. Make sure to listen closely to their concerns, respect their autonomy, and let them lead the decision-making to the extent possible.

Learn about other resources that are available to you

Familiarize yourself with local resources, such as community services and government programs that can provide assistance when you start caring for your elderly parents. Depending on the local government unit where you live, there might be special perks and benefits for senior citizens.

And when it comes to healthcare and planning, it’s always best to seek professional advice. Consult with healthcare professionals, financial planners, and elder law attorneys to ensure you are making informed decisions. They can guide you on matters such as healthcare options, estate planning, and financial management.

Encourage them to care for their well-being

Old age doesn’t only affect the health, but also tends to take a toll on people’s mental health. Social isolation and loneliness are major issues among older people, so find ways to encourage them to exercise and socialize.

Talk to them about the importance of staying active and try to incorporate these activities into their schedule. Simple activities like meeting up with friends or neighbors to walk, golf, or play cards can make a big difference in older parents’ physical and mental health, helping them stay stronger as they age.

Secure their finances

As your parents grow older, their financial needs and situation also change. Familiarize yourself in their sources of income, such as pensions and investments. Let them handle their finances but be ready to step in if you notice them struggling with managing their finances.

Make sure that they have sufficient funds to cover all their living expenses, including potentially increasing medical needs. Consider getting them health insurance to help with medical bills.

Be flexible and ready to adapt

As your parents’ needs change over time, be prepared to adjust your caregiving approach. Stay flexible and open to new ideas and solutions. Regularly reassess the situation and make necessary modifications to your routine or care plan.

But, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Taking care of aging parents can be emotionally and physically demanding. Prioritize self-care and take breaks, pursue your own interests, and seek support when needed. Remember, you need to be well to provide good care.

You’re not alone in taking care of your loved ones

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to caregiving — each family’s needs are different. With the right tools and a compassionate mindset, you can navigate this journey with confidence and make a positive difference in the lives of your aging parents.

The good news is it’s not too late to get insurance even if they’re past the senior citizen mark. You can get AXA Global Health Access up until before they turn 70, with renewals until they’re 99 years old. Click here to learn more.