As your parents start to age you may not be able to help but wonder what is the best way to take care of them? Should they be living with you full time or have a proper caretaker? Aging is not fun for anyone but it is important to keep an open mind and an open heart. Above all, you want to be making memories with your father and not causing unneeded stress in their lives. So, here are four essential tips for taking care of your father in his old age.
1. Understand how much care is needed.
It’s important not to get in over your head when it comes to taking care of your elderly father. There will be the inevitable shuttling back and forth to doctor checkups such as Prostate 911 but you want to make sure you have a realistic approach to care. If you are overwhelmed with a long to-do list it can be harder to see the big picture. You can start by making a list that consists of daily, weekly, and monthly needs or tasks that will help you and your support system understand how much help may be needed during the day and night shifts. You can also have a notebook handy so you can jot down every time someone helps your father throughout the day. After just one week you should have a better idea regarding what help is warranted. You can also ask your father what he feels he may need the biggest amount of support with.
2. Your health matters too.
Being able to accept or not accept if you can help your elderly father is a monumental task. It is one thing to have to take them to the hearing aid clinic every so often, but it can be a whole new ballpark when his demands start to take a toll on your health. You may have a family that bands together and does not require to hire outside help. But in most cases, it’s OK to bring in additional care to be able to provide a better form of life for your dad. When you make your to-do list, it’s vital to acknowledge how much responsibility you believe you can take on your shoulders. The worst thing you can do for yourself or your father is to burn out or develop a health condition of your own. This option could force you not to be able to take care of your loved run in the long run. The best option is to stay proactive and healthy. Even though you are caring for a loved one you have to, at times, put yourself first, and this is OK.
3. Research the best caregiver help.
Many find that caregiving can take away valuable time from their lives that they are not always willing to part with. But it is important to remember that it’s an investment in your father’s future and will always pay off in the long haul. Finding the right fit can take a lot of effort and out-of-the-box thinking on your part. But your patients will be worth it when you are finally able to take some breaks. Keep your mind open for activities that your dad may enjoy. It could be a good idea to enroll them in an older adult program where they can socialize with others for a little bit. Also, if you hire an in-home caregiver this would also give you back some of your time. Above all cherish the moments and memories you are making even if you are a bit frustrated with the situation.
4. Sharing Is Caring
It is OK to ask for help, and it’s definitely OK to ask your family to pitch in and take some of the responsibility off your shoulders. Sometimes extended family members think you are doing such a good job they don’t think to ask if you need help. Reach out and let them know that anytime they are willing to spare is helpful.
