As your parent ages, you will want to support them.
Understandably, many family members decide to become caregivers for their loved one. Oftentimes the long-term commitment of caregiving can develop stressors for the caregiver, their employment, family time, physical and mental health. They become burnt out.
This is where we come in. One of the most common calls we receive is from family members of seniors who have become their caregivers. While we don’t want to see anyone struggling, we are so glad to take these calls – they’re the first step to solutions that will alleviate stress for the entire family.
Approaching the sensitive topic of getting a caregiver can be tricky, and many seniors become confrontational or upset. We use these guidelines to talk through concerns seniors have about homecare:
Above all, show empathy: Aging is complicated for seniors, and requiring help can feel extremely vulnerable. Even if it’s stressful for you, take a breath and approach conversations with empathy. Your senior will feel more heard and understood in the future.
Describe these five key factors that will immediately improve quality and longevity of life:
- Explain it’s an opportunity to have more control
Most seniors assume they will have to relinquish control of their lives once a caregiver gets involved. Not true! Having a caregiver is a wonderful way to get your voice heard – they are excellent advocates. Caregivers are also more objective than family members, which can be beneficial for your senior. - Prolonged independence in the home
As we age, daily routines of housekeeping, hygiene, paying bills, and running errands tend to slip. If those things go left undone too long, various problems arise. A caregiver will be able to maintain those aspects of life so that everything in the home runs smoothly. - Stay safer while you age
Falls are one of the most common reasons for hospitalization among the elderly. Data shows that fewer falls occur at home when a caregiver is in the picture. Even if your senior is alone part of the day, the probability of them falling is less. Caregivers have the expertise to ensure safe surroundings, making sure furniture, rugs, and other items are not blocking foot traffic in the home. They make sure bathrooms and stairs are safe and check that chairs and beds are easily accessible. - Less stress on all family members
Focus on your treasured years with your loved ones. As well-meaning as family members are, providing senior homecare on top of maintaining today’s life is going to become a burden. Family caregivers need a break! You can choose to hire a caregiver for an hour a day for respite care or part-time/full-time care. Either way, stress will be alleviated because you’ll know there is a professional caring for your loved one. And all you have to do is enjoy your time with them. - Improved mental and physical health
From meal preparation to taking walks to playing games, caregivers do it all. And each task results in better mental and physical health. Seniors with caregivers have increased social interaction, get sick less often, are more motivated, and stay active longer than those who don’t have caregivers.
