What To Think About As Your Parents Start To Age
There’s no way around your parent’s aging so you may as well embrace the situation. There may come a time when you look at them and realize they’re quickly beginning to age and need more help.
It may be upsetting or challenging for you to accept but the good news is that you can begin thinking about the process and the future now so you’re ready and equipped to deal with reality. Learn what you should be thinking about now as your parents start to age so you’re in a good place to step in and assist when the time is right.
Assessing Needs & Health
You should take a moment and begin to assess their needs and overall health for starters, before making any big decisions about their future. Think about how they’re doing mentally and physically and how they get along on their own. Sit down and talk to your parents about how they’re feeling and their health problems and any concerns they have. Not only discuss medical issues but also their financial health and help get their finances in better order to avoid future arguments or confusion.
Where They Will Live
You should also begin thinking about where your aging parents will live as they get older and less mobile. There are a few different options such as staying put, downsizing, or choosing to live in a long-term senior care facility. In this case, you can learn more here about why this may be a good idea and the reasons current residents enjoy living there. You want to start thinking about this now so you can all work together to get the details mapped out so everyone is prepared for the transition when it comes time.
Involving Others
As your parent’s age, they may require more time and attention from you. However, this can be a lot to take on if you have a family of your own and are working full-time. Avoid draining yourself and your budget by reaching out and getting the whole family involved right away. Speak to your siblings, relatives, and neighbors and make sure everyone understands the reality of the situation and get a feel for who wants to or how others are willing to help too. You might also want to take your parents to their appointments and advocate for them and involve their medical team and any other doctors they see and work as a group to keep them healthy.
Schedules & Activities
You want your parents to stay active and engaged in life as they age so they can stay happy and well. Get them thinking about their daily schedule and make sure they have some structure to their days. Also, discuss upcoming activities or ways they can get involved in the community and socialize with others. Encourage them to get out of the house, exercise regularly, and participate in hobbies they enjoy. Make time to check-in and visit them throughout the week and see who else in the area they may want to visit with regularly.
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