Attending to aging parents can prove to be slightly difficult. Even when providing proper and immediate care for their sickness, you may have to spend a lot of time and attention everyday. When one of your parents falls ill and need constant care, you might even think of placing them in a nursing home. But reluctantly you may think of another possibility of care giving. Here are some valuable tips to help your aging parents to cope up with day to day life.
Keep Things Handy
Always have a check on their social security number and the list of doctors they regularly visit. Try to be aware of their health care plan and policies and be sure to have information regarding the name and contact details of their dentist and pharmacy they prefer to be consulted. Get to learn if your parents are in any kind of program that offers medical reimbursement and discounts. Make sure to have a copy of their insurance cards – front as well as the back side and Medicare cards. For further information on Medicare log on to their website and download the user manual.
Be Informed Of All Matters
Create a list of medicines your aging parents consume. Include all medications in the list, whether taken regularly or not. Jot down even the medicines that are available over the counter like aspirin, nutritional supplements, herbal supplements, vitamins and other supplements taken by them. Also make a note of the dosage and instructions prescribed by the practitioner. Always carry the list and other medical records while you visit you parents doctor.
You should also be well aware of the medical problems your elderly parents are suffering from to provide timely support and care. Update yourself with all vital information and health care advices from your aging parents doctor.
A family meeting can help you and your parents locate and understand the feelings of other members of the family. Their ideas and responsibility in the case of care giving should also be discussed. Segregating and allotting care giving tasks to other family members can help them interact with the older generation and also reduce your load.
Ensure that you are aware of all legal documents of your aging parents such as wills, durable power of attorney for finances as well as durable power of attorney for health care and a living will if there is any. Keep a track on their financial assets also. With good intentions and a good plan you can provide complete safety and utmost care for your aging parents.