While caregiving can be a rewarding experience that allows adult children to spend quality time with their parents, it can also be stressful. The financial burdens, time constraints and lack of help can overwhelm you to the point where you can no longer assist your parents to the best of your ability. Even worse, the stress of aging parents can create personal and familial problems.
You need to find healthy ways to deal with this stress. The right tools can keep you physically and mentally healthy as you take on this new role as a caregiver. Whether your loved one is in good health or you are taking care of sick parents, here are some practical tips to help you successfully navigate your journey.
Develop a Plan
Caregiving can bring up many fears of the unknown. As your parents age, you may wonder how you can afford caregiving services or how you can avoid making their health conditions worse.
Working with your parents and their doctors to develop a plan is a great place to start. Your plan can include your and your parents’ roles in the short—and long-term circumstances, as well as financial plans and emergency protocols. If you have elderly parents living alone, you may want to consider a potential move-out plan.
While having these conversations can be uncomfortable, creating a plan that outlines the future helps you focus on making memories with your parents in the present.
Ask for Help
When first taking on the responsibility of caring for an aging parent or loved one, it can be overwhelming. You may experience some common challenges faced by caregivers, such as decision fatigue or emotional and physical stress.
Thankfully, you don’t have to do it alone. There are a variety of support systems you can lean on to help you manage the stress of aging parents:
- Doctors: Your parent’s doctors know firsthand what medications they take and the medical issues at hand. They can ensure you administer the proper medicine dosage and provide the appropriate care.
- Family Members: Getting help from family members can be a great way to alleviate stress. However, to avoid any additional stress, it’s important to establish a plan that includes specific details of each person’s duties.
- Companion Care Services: If you don’t have family members to help manage the day-to-day tasks, companion care services can help. Research options with your parents to ensure they receive the right companion care services to meet their needs.
Take Time for Yourself
According to AARP, there are more than 48 million family caregivers in the United States alone. Many are sandwich generation caregivers who at times may feel pressure to put all their time into their parents, leaving little to no time for themselves. This can lead to caregiver burnout and other physical and mental health problems.
Taking time for yourself is essential. It can be as simple as exercising or reading a book. It can also include joining or creating a support group or emotional outlet. Whether it be family members or a support group for caregivers in your situation, talking with others who understand the stress of aging parents makes a huge difference. You can find relief in knowing you are not alone and learn some caregiving tips you can try in the future.
Create a Joyful Caregiving Experience With FirstLight Home Care
Even though caregiving has its challenges, the right resources can make it a memorable experience for you and your aging parents. For families looking for private caregivers, FirstLight Home Care provides a variety of companion care services that can help you manage the stress of aging parents with ease. Our in-home caregivers offer practical help with everyday tasks along with emotional support. Contact us today to help your loved one have their best day every day.