When your parents start getting older, this can present a whole host of challenges. However, this does not mean that you should bury your head in the sand and avoid them entirely. Instead, it is better to come up with a clear strategy about the ways that you are going to confront this issue head-on. Take a look at these methods to make a plan for your elderly parents.
Learn to Talk to Them
In Western culture, there is a fear of aging, which simply does not exist in many eastern countries. Rather than avoiding the subject entirely, it is a good idea to learn to talk to your parents – even if they are currently in the peak of mental and physical health. If you start having these conversations sooner, you are more likely to be able to continue them successfully when they become more relevant over time. You should be both gentle and direct in your approach, which can certainly be a difficult balance to reach, but one that is worth doing so well.
Make a Plan
If you make a plan for the different eventualities that could occur in your parents’ lives sooner, you can give yourself peace of mind in the present in knowing that they are dealt with. For example, you could start researching assisted living facilities such as Brandywine Living that could be a place where your parents go if they need to.
Address Safety Concerns
Of course, it is the preferable plan that your parents remain in place at their own home for the longest time possible. One of the simplest approaches of ensuring this is by addressing safety concerns around the house. For example, you could set up handrails in the bath and shower as these are the most likely places where slips and falls could occur. You could also discuss the driving situation and whether your parents are safe to continue or if you need to check out the public transportation options in the area.
Help Out with Companionship
One of the major complaints in old age is a lack of companionship and loneliness. Rather than letting your parents suffer from this, one of the best ways of addressing it is to go and visit them more often yourself. If you do not live in the local area, you could check out whether there are any clubs that they could join or other social activities that could prove to be beneficial.
Encourage Active Living
Mental and physical activity are important when staving off the effects of aging, so encourage your parents in both areas to ensure that they stay active. Again, researching the options in the local area can be beneficial – particularly for those parents who are not on the internet.
Making a plan for your elderly parents is worthwhile no matter what stage they are currently at, and it is particularly important if they are entering a phase of mental or physical frailty.