Care giving for a parent can be difficult. The roles turn and the recent added responsibilities are not always the easiest. Here is aid on care giving for a parent so that transition can be smoother and easier for you.
It can be a difficult time in life when parents get to the age where the child decides to take on care giving of them. Whether it is partial, physical care or even aid with activities that come with daily life, it can often appear like a confusing world of new information and considerations that the kid has never had to do before.
There are going to be new words and people to meet and understand, and unlike raising children you have to take into serious consideration how things have been done in the past and the wishes of your parents in the direction their life is heading.
The first thing you should do is try to have a discussion with your parent. This may be quite casual, but it is a pretty idea to find a moment where both of you are in good moods and can talk freely. By doing this you can discover exactly what sort of help they may need, and what preferences they may have for it. Don't let them feel sad - this is a part of life that everyone will go through as they get older.
It is important to understand their medical issues and any medicines they are prescribed. If you can, go along to a doctor's appointment with them so that you can meet and get an understanding of the major health concerns. This way you'll be able to formulate a plan in conjunction with their medical professional that covers sourcing medication and understanding dosage requirements.
One thing to consider is power of attorney. This is a frightening prospect for many children but it can save a lot of heartache and complications later on. If your parents are prepared to give you either control over their assets and decisions or even a partial coverage that legally makes you able to control medical decisions when they cannot, then this is worthwhile. If something happens it'll allow you to discuss and manage conditions with doctors, make choices based on the best interests of the parents and access their funding for procedures.
Don't be afraid to look at respite care. This is uncommitted in many kind, and can either need taking your parent to a social event that may involve a day a week, that you can have to yourself or by getting home-visit nurses to come and provide care and company for a few hours a day to let you have a break.
As care requirements become more permanent and rely on you being available almost all the time then it might be an idea to look into options such as assisted living or lift power chair . Having a talk with your parents about their preferences early on will mean you can feel convinced you're making the proper decisions when it comes to admissions.
If your parents have no income or retirement plans then money may be a major concern for you. If their earnings are under a guaranteed threshold your parents can be considered your dependents and this will give you some options and allowances when it comes to tax relief.
Care giving for a parent is inevitable for many of us. Remember it will be as trying for your parents as it is for you. Be sure always to keep in mind their better interest and right quality of life as you make decisions united.
