Use these tips for caregiving as an only child and learn how to better manage care for your loved ones and yourself.
Being an only child has its perks. Growing up, you never had to experience sibling rivalry or fights, and you also had the benefit of receiving all the attention and love of your parents. As an adult without siblings, however, you may now realize that it is your turn to provide all the care your parents need.
You will find benefits to this as well. You are able to make all the necessary decisions without the need to get the approval of siblings. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about arguments and elevated emotions that often manifest among siblings during the stress of caring for older parents.
The drawback, however, is the fact that it’s an enormous responsibility to provide care for your parents on your own. These tips for caregiving can help.
- Watch for signs. Keep your finger on the pulse of your parents’ ability to handle everyday activities of living independently. Are they paying bills and balancing the checkbook? Is the home being cared for and kept clean? Are they keeping up with personal hygiene? Are there any warning signs of dangers such as cluttered rooms that could cause a fall, scorch marks on pans that could indicate forgetfulness when cooking, etc.?
- Bring in reinforcements. If you suspect your parents may need some help at home, it’s a good idea to first schedule an appointment with the doctor to discuss your concerns. A trusted professional can often have more of an influence on older loved ones and the need for intervention to ensure safety.
- Prepare early. The need for help at home as your parents get older is highly likely. So even if they are active and healthy now, it is a wise idea to begin to formulate a plan for their future care needs. Sit down together and have an open and honest discussion about their wishes. This discussion should include an assessment of finances and confirmation that all crucial paperwork is in place: power of attorney, healthcare directive, will, etc.
Once the need for help in the home is established, you’ll want to build a strong support system. Caring for aging parents is not something that should be undertaken solo. This can quickly result in depression, caregiver burnout, and a host of other health complications.
How Home Care Can Help
As an only child, working with Grace Home Care is an exceptional way to maintain a healthy life balance 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 services including:
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Transportation and errand-running
- Fall prevention
- Help with baths/showers, getting dressed, along with other personal care needs
- Companionship
- Meal planning and prep
- Medication reminders
- Specialized dementia care
- And much more
Call us at 785-286-2273 or reach out to us online for a consultation. We will listen to your concerns and work with you to formulate the solution you need. We are pleased to provide our award-winning in-home care services throughout the Topeka area.