One of the challenging things about living alone for seniors is getting to medical appointments. No one likes going to the doctor, but for seniors the process of going to a medical appointment can be difficult, overwhelming, and exhausting.
If your senior parent no longer drives and needs transportation to an appointment you may need to take time off from work to take them, which isn’t always easy to do. If you don’t have paid time off, you could be losing money as well as time taking your senior parent to their appointments. Home care can help. If your senior parent has home care, a trusted provider will see that your senior parent gets safely to their appointment and home again. Here is how home care can help with medical appointments:
Helps Your Senior Parent Get Dressed for the Appointment
Some seniors struggle with buttons, zippers, or even putting on shoes. A home care provider can help your parent choose the right outfit and assist with dressing.
If your loved one needs support putting on a coat or adjusting clothing for comfort, the caregiver is there to help. They also make sure your parent has any needed items, like glasses, hearing aids, or medical paperwork.
Drive Your Parent to the Appointment
Many seniors can no longer drive, and public transportation can be difficult. A home care provider can safely drive your parent to their appointment, ensuring they arrive on time. Sometimes this could mean leaving extremely early to the appointment so your senior parent isn’t rushed walking around.
They help them get in and out of the car carefully and provide a smooth ride, avoiding sudden stops or turns that might make a senior feel uneasy.
Helps Your Senior Parent Get Through the Parking Lot Safely
Parking lots can be dangerous for seniors. Uneven pavement, other cars, or long distances from the entrance can be tough to navigate. A home care provider will walk beside your parent, offering an arm for support if needed. If they use a cane or walker, the caregiver will make sure it is positioned correctly. They will also help with wheelchair transfers if necessary.
Find the Right Office and Check In
Medical buildings can be confusing, with multiple offices and long hallways. A home care provider helps your parent find the correct office and check in at the front desk. Sometimes seniors need to take breaks if there is a long distance to walk, and a home care provider can help your senior parent find a place to sit and encourage them to rest until they feel ready to go on.
If paperwork needs to be filled out, the caregiver can assist. They also remind staff of any special needs your parent has, such as hearing difficulties or mobility issues.
Helping Them Get Home Safely
After the appointment, the home care provider helps your parent get back to the car and drives them home safely. Once home, they help your senior parent get settled, take off their coat, and ensure they are comfortable.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Greenwood Village, CO please contact the caring staff at FirstLight Home Care of Central Denver today at (303) 953-9575
FirstLight Home Care of Central Denver provides exceptional home care for seniors in Denver, Littleton, Westminster, Wheat Ridge, Arvada, Lakewood, Golden, Centennial, Greenwood Village, Aurora and surrounding areas.