Caring for Your Aging Parent as an Only Child
There are many perks to being an only child when you’re younger. You didn’t have to experience sibling squabbles or rivalries and were able to enjoy the full attention of your parents. However, as an adult, you now have sole responsibility when it comes to caring for Mom and Dad.
Practical Tips for Sole Caregivers
If you’re in this situation, you’re probably feeling a lot of pressure on your shoulders. Your parents are getting older and require a lot of support, but you have your own life and obligations to tend to. These strategies will help you feel more prepared and less alone in your caregiving duties.
Start the Conversation Early
It’s important to formulate plans early on, while your parents have the ability to express their needs and desires for their retirement years. Discuss their wishes and be sure to have paperwork in place, including their will, health care directives, and power of attorney. And because life can often be unpredictable, you should also have a plan in place for possible emergencies.
Watch for Warning Signs
Keep an eye on your parent’s ability to stay on top of household responsibilities, such as bill paying, grocery shopping, and grooming themselves. Neglecting these tasks is a warning sign that it’s time to step in and intervene.
Stay Organized
Your parents may have medical issues, prescriptions, and complicated finances to keep track of. Stay in touch with their physician about any treatments or ongoing issues and review their insurance coverage regularly. When it comes to money matters, consult a financial advisor for tasks you can’t handle on your own. Many senior centers and local organizations also offer support for older adults that you can take advantage of.
Set Boundaries
You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s essential to prioritize your own self care to avoid burnout. Ask for help when you need it, and remember putting yourself first enables you to take better care of your parents.
Create a Support System
It’s important to recognize that although you’re an only child, you’re not alone in this journey. Enlist your parents’ neighbors, friends, and other family members to help out when possible. They’re likely willing to provide transportation, run errands, or drop off meals. You can also consider hiring professional assistance with a reputable agency like Visiting Angels if you need further support.
Visiting Angels is Here to Help
Partnering with Visiting Angels Tacoma is a great way to maintain a healthy life balance while also ensuring your senior parents’ needs are being met. Our kind and experienced caregivers are able to assist your senior parents with activities of daily living, including hygiene routines, bathing, health meal prep, fall prevention, safe and reliable transportation, and chores. Additionally, they are able to step in and provide respite care when you need to temporarily step away from your duties.
If you’re ready to learn more about home care services with Visiting Angels Tacoma, please fill out our contact form or give us a call today at 253-537-3700.