5 Steps to Take When Aging Parents Need Help

As our parents age, it can be difficult to know how best to help them. Recognizing the need for assistance and navigating the various support services available is a challenge that many of us face in this stage of life.

As we age and our bodies change, it can be difficult to manage everyday tasks that were once second nature. It is essential to recognize when help is needed and provide support in order to maintain quality of life. Knowing how best to provide this support can be a challenge, but it is important to pay attention and be open to change.

In this blog post, we will explore the steps you should take when your aging parents need help, focusing on identifying their needs, talking to them about their needs, and choosing the right support services.

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How to recognize when help is needed

When it comes to recognizing the need for help, it is important to pay attention to small changes in your aging parent’s lifestyle. If they seem more forgetful or confused, they may need help with remembering their medications and appointments. If they have difficulty managing tasks around the house such as cleaning or shopping, this could be a sign that they need help with day-to-day activities.

It’s also important to pay attention to signs of depression, such as changes in mood or appetite, or lack of interest in activities that used to bring them joy. This could indicate a need for emotional support from family members or outside professionals.

Other signs that your aging parent may need help include difficulty with mobility, increased reliance on others for transportation or errands, or a decrease in hygiene and grooming. If you notice any of these signs it is important to take action and seek out the necessary resources.

Identifying the Need for Assistance

Once you recognize that your parent needs help, the next step is to talk to them about their needs. This can be a difficult conversation, but it’s important to approach it with respect and understanding.

Start by explaining why you think they need assistance, followed by suggestions for ways in which you could provide support. Ask about their thoughts and feelings, and be sure to listen to what they have to say. This will help you understand any reservations or worries that your parent might have about obtaining assistance.

It’s important to make sure that the assistance needed is tailored to your parent’s specific needs. Try to look for potential solutions that would be both practical and comfortable for them.

Understanding your parent’s needs and abilities

Once you’ve had a conversation about your parent’s needs and abilities, it is important to get an understanding of what kind of help they need. This will ensure that the services they receive are tailored to their individual needs.

Consider whether your parent can still manage activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing or preparing meals. It is also important to assess mental and emotional needs, such as whether they need assistance with managing their finances or getting out of the house more often.

Talking with your parents about their needs

After assessing their needs, it is important to have a conversation with your parents about the types of support services that could help them. Explain the different options and make sure they understand what each one offers. Talk about the potential risks and benefits associated with each option, so your parent can make an informed decision.

It’s also important to discuss the costs associated with different services and whether your parent has any financial resources that could help cover them. If not, consider applying for government programs or talking to local agencies about potential solutions.

Choosing the Right Support Services

Once you have discussed the options with your aging parent, it’s time to choose a service that best meets their needs. Consider factors such as quality of care, cost and location. Also make sure to research the service provider and read reviews from other people who have used their services.

If possible, take your parent to visit the facility or provider and ask questions about the services they offer. This will give you a better understanding of what your parent can expect from their care.

Providing Ongoing Support

Once you have chosen a service and your aging parent has begun receiving assistance, it is important to provide ongoing support. Make sure to stay in contact with the service provider so you can monitor your parent’s care and make sure their needs are being met.

It is also important to check in regularly with your parent, provide encouragement and support, and be available when they need help. This will give them a sense of security and comfort as they age.

Taking care of aging parents can be a challenging task, but it is also an important one that can help your parents stay independent and healthy for as long as possible. By understanding the needs and abilities of your parent, talking to them about their needs, and researching the right support services for their situation, you will be able to help your aging parents get the care and assistance they need.

Remember that you don’t have to do it all alone – there are many services and support available to help make caring for elderly parents easier. Working together with health professionals, family members, and other caregivers can make a big difference in providing the best possible care for your parents.

Above all, don’t forget to take care of yourself too – caring for aging parents can be an emotional and time-consuming process. Make sure you take the time to rest and recharge so that you can continue to provide support for your loved ones.

If you would like help assessing your home safety needs, our team of occupational therapists would be happy to book a virtual home safety assessment with you.

At Universal Home Consulting, we understand the importance of aging in place and helping families feel confident that their loved ones can stay safe and healthy at home. We offer virtual home safety assessments to help families identify potential risks and create a plan to address them. We also provide caregiver coaching to provide education and support to help prevent injury and burnout.