Care For Yourself As You Care For Elderly Parents

Are you responsible for the care of elderly parents? You probably remember the days when your parents taught you how to ride a bike and perhaps you have fond memories of the times they waited up for you while you were out on a date. Whether those memories or others like them come to mind, it must be bittersweet to realize that the tables have turned and that you are now caring for your mother and father if they are unable to live on their own. While the responsibility may seem daunting, there are things you can do to lighten the load. Here are some ideas that might inspire you to do just that.

Accept That You Are Doing A Good Job

Of course, there is always more that you can do to help your parents, but there are only so many hours in a day, and there is only so much money that you can spend. Consider making a list of your parent's needs and of the things that make them feel happy and secure. As you go over the list, it may surprise you that you are already fulfilling most of the items you wrote down. If not, is there a way you can incorporate some of your ideas into your regimen with them? They key is in talking to your parents and asking them to be frank about their needs and their wants.

• Perhaps you realize that they need more outings. If so, consider asking trusted friends and family members to take turns driving your parents to places they enjoy. Even a Sunday drive to see the wildflowers and a stop to have an ice cream sundae might be just what your parents need.
• Consider what might be something that would bring extra interest to their time spent at home. Would your parents enjoy listening to audiobooks? Would board games be something that would be fun for them? 

Analyze Your Own Needs

Remember that you can't take care of your parents completely if you are not healthy and happy in your own life.

• Are you getting enough rest and exercise? When is the last time you went to the doctor for a complete physical? Are you having fun and are you making sure that you have a social life, both with and without your spouse? Perhaps you have been wanting to enroll in classes or you've been wanting to go to museums, the theater and other points of interest. How long has it been since you went on a trip? Maybe it would be a good idea for you to make a different list that would include activities on your own bucket list.
• Consider arranging for home health help. Whether it's a few hours a day, every day, or even if you take a vacation, hiring home health workers would give you the peace of mind that your parents are being well taken care of. Home health professionals range from registered nurses to licensed vocational and practical nurses who can do the same things they would do in an actual hospital. If your parents don't need that level of care, consider hiring personal care aides or home health aides. You can even hire home health workers to help with prescribed physical therapy. Whether it's simply giving companionship or administering medication, your parents needs will be met professionally when you hire home health workers.

If you have specific questions about home health care, contact a business like A Better Home Health Care.