As a busy parent, it may come as a surprise to realize the many stages of parenting. You don’t just need to look after your children. Your mom or dad may be entering the stage of needing extra care. 

If you’re looking for ways to have ‘the conversation’ about in-home care, consider these tips.

Home is Sweet

We all know that expression, “home sweet home.” A recent study by AARP found that nearly 90% of people over 50 would prefer to stay in their homes as long as possible. Often the responsibility of caring is handled by local family members. 

Let’s say your parents are born-and-bred New Yorkers. To help your parent stay in their home as long as possible, you don’t have to shoulder the responsibility alone. Where can you start? Do an online search for home care Manhattan to explore your options. Are your parents Angelinos instead? Search for home care in Los Angeles. You may find that engaging the right home health aide services is a great way to help your mom and/or dad continue to live at home. 

Consider some of the benefits of having an in-home aide. Your parent can stay in a comfortable and familiar environment. They can continue to work in the garden, enjoy the surroundings, and live an independent lifestyle. In addition, they can maintain friendships and social support from their neighbors and the local community.

As you talk to your folks, explore some of the things that could be tipping points that help them stay in their home as long as possible. This may include daily chores, classes and programs, outings, and maintaining their social life.

Daily Chores

For many aging people, having help with daily chores makes a world of difference. These kinds of activities are in addition to direct medical care that your parent may need. 

A home health aide can assist your folks with household services. This takes the responsibility off of your shoulders – while helping your mom or dad retain their dignity and independence.

These may include:

• Light housework
• Assistance with bathing and dressing
• Companionship for walks and excursions
• Escort for appointments
• Support for exercise and mobility
• Reminders for medications

If your parent or loved one has a large home, consider additional services that will make it possible to maintain a healthy home. Organize yard work for different reasons such as mowing the grass in the summer, and shoveling the walkway in the winter.

With a little planning, you can coordinate the full house maintenance to enable your folks to stay in a safe and healthy home.

Classes and Programs

In many neighborhoods, senior and community centers offer special classes and programs. These are a great resource to stay active, engaged, and meeting like-minded people.

Your parent may have an interest that they’ve always wished to explore. This might include anything from learning new technology to studying a language or exploring watercolor painting.

Explore your parent’s interests. What are some things they’ve always loved to do? What are some things that were on their wish list that they’d like to explore?

If getting to the center is an issue, having a personal companion can be the bridge to taking full advantage of all the programs. 

Outings

No matter where you live, you probably have exceptional cultural programs. Just take your pick and explore the many offerings. Check out museums, concerts, and performances in the park. If you’re looking for entertainment, music, art, dance, and theater – you’re in the right spot. 

Having a personal companion will help your mom or dad take full advantage of all the city has to offer. 

Social Interactions

Many experts encourage seniors to keep an active social life. Having a rich and varied social life is key to staying engaged, active, and connected. 

According to a recent report in the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) about 25% of Americans 65 or older are socially isolated. This can contribute to loneliness and feelings of isolation. 

One of the big issues in aging is that many older adults find it challenging to keep up their social interactions and friendships. Friends may move away or become less active. Having a strong social network is easier to achieve when you’re making new friends, exploring interests, and finding people who are actively engaged.

Sum Up

Help your parent or loved one stay in his or her own home as long as possible. Talk with your parent to explore the ways a companion will help them achieve the freedom and independence they want to preserve.