Use these tips if you’re an adult only child caring for aging parents.
Being an only child has many perks. During childhood, you never had to experience sibling rivalry or fights, and you had the advantage of getting all the attention and love of your parents. As an adult only child, you may now realize that it is your turn to provide all of the care your parents need.
There are benefits to this as well. You are able to make all of the necessary decisions without having to consult with siblings. You also avoid the disagreements and heightened emotions that often manifest among siblings during the stress of taking care of aging parents.
The drawback, however, is that it’s an enormous responsibility to care for your parents on your own. These pointers can help.
- Watch for signs. Keep your finger on the pulse of your parents’ ability to manage everyday activities of living independently. Are they paying bills and balancing the checkbook? Is the home being maintained and kept clean? Are they keeping up with personal hygiene? Are there any red flags of dangers such as cluttered rooms that could cause a fall, scorch marks on pans that could indicate unattended cooking, etc.?
- Prepare early. The need for help in the home as your parents age is highly likely. So even if they’re healthy and active now, it’s a smart idea to begin to formulate a plan for their future care needs. Sit down together and have an honest and open conversation about their wishes. This discussion should include a review of finances and confirmation that all essential paperwork is in place: will, power of attorney, healthcare directive, etc.
- Bring in reinforcements. If you suspect your parents might need some help in the home, it’s a good idea to first schedule an appointment with the doctor to go over your concerns. A trusted professional can often have more of an influence on older adults and the need for intervention to ensure safety.
Once the need for support in the home has been established, you’ll want to build a good support system. Taking care of aging parents is never something that should be undertaken solo. This can quickly result in caregiver burnout, depression, and a host of other health complications.
How Home Care Can Help You Manage Care as an Adult Only Child
As an only child, working with Live Free Home Health Care is a fantastic way to maintain a balanced and healthy life while making sure your parents’ needs are met. Our fully trained and experienced care professionals are here with just the right level of care your parents need, through home care services such as:
- Medication reminders
- Meal planning and prep
- Companionship
- Transportation and errand-running
- Help with baths/showers, getting dressed, and other personal care needs
- Specialized dementia care
- Fall prevention
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- And much more
Get in touch with us at 603-217-0149 to learn more. We will listen to your concerns and help formulate a solution that works for you and your loved ones. We are proud to serve families throughout Epsom, New Hampton, Tilton, and the surrounding areas. Visit our Service Area page to see if our award-winning home care services are available in your town.