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One of the greatest challenges to families and medical professionals alike is the sheer number of people currently at retirement age or due to retire within the next decade. According to one publication in the United States, the youngest Boomers are now around 55 years of age with the majority having already retired. A huge portion of the population are now aging, and with the high cost of healthcare, many are left without adequate provisions in daily life.
More and more aging parents are moving in with their adult children, and if you are left dealing with the addition of elderly parents in your home, you are probably in need of some sage advice. Here are some tips that could help you make life easier on them as well as on yourself.
1. Learn the Fine Art of Reminiscence
As dementia sets in, some elderly people get uncharacteristically angry and out of control. What was once easy for them becomes a real challenge. As they begin to forget words, places and people, they get even angrier due to frustration. It has been suggested that you sit quietly with them for a while and reminisce about happier times. Lead them back through the years to times and places that they felt at peace among friends and family. You’d be amazed at just how quickly you will see the calm reclaim them again.
2. Make It Easier for Them to Navigate Your Home
Do you remember when your children were little and you had to childproof everything from your cupboards to those sharp edges on coffee tables? What you are about to do in your home is much like that. Make sure you remove everything from their path that they are likely to trip on, and hire or buy medical devices they may need to achieve proper mobility. Whether it’s a walker, wheelchair or portable ramp, help them be more independent and, thereby, keep them calm. Bosshard Medical offers a wide range of mobility products that will give your aging parents a sense of independence, requiring less assistance to move about unassisted.
3. In-Home Caregivers
Let’s face it. You cannot be at home 24/7, especially if you work, so there will probably come a time when you need to hire in-home caregivers. While these can be quite costly, even with Social Assistance through Social Security, they are a lifesaver for you as well as your aging parents. Bringing mom and dad into your house is a way to repay your parents, who took such amazing care of you throughout the years. Take the time to thoroughly vet any caregivers your hire to help out, and have them meet with your parent/s before you go ahead.
With these few tips, you should be able to make the transition easier on everyone involved. Remember that you are not alone as many families are now housing their aging parents. As a final bit of advice, it might help you to stay strong if you join a support group in your area. It helps to share woes and draw from the experiences of others. It will be a challenge, but with the help and support of others, it’s something you really can do.
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