Caring for an elderly parent without siblings can feel challenging, but our expert tips can help.
Being an only child has some perks. During childhood, you never had to experience sibling rivalry or fights, and you had the advantage of getting all the attention and love of your parents. As an adult without siblings though, you may now realize that it’s your turn to provide all of the care your parents need.
There are certainly benefits to this as well. You are able to make all of the essential decisions without the need to check with siblings. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about disagreements and heightened emotions that often manifest among siblings during the stress of caring for older parents.
The disadvantage, of course, is that caring for an elderly parent without siblings is a tremendous responsibility. These tips can help.
- Watch for signs. Keep an eye on your parents’ ability to manage everyday activities of living independently. Are they paying bills and balancing the checkbook? Is the home being cared for and kept clean? Are they keeping up with personal hygiene? Are there any warning signs of dangers such as cluttered rooms that could result in a fall, scorch marks on pans that could indicate forgetfulness when cooking, etc.?
- Bring in reinforcements. If you suspect your parents might need some help at home, it is smart to first schedule a consultation with the doctor to talk about your concerns. A trusted professional can often have more of an influence on older loved ones and the need for intervention to ensure safety.
- Prepare early. The need for help at home as your parents get older is highly likely. So even if they are healthy and active now, it’s a good idea to begin to formulate a plan for their future care needs. Sit down with your parents and have an honest and open discussion about their wishes. This discussion should include an overview of finances and confirmation that all essential paperwork is in place: power of attorney, healthcare directive, will, etc.
Once the need for care in the home has been established, you will want to build a strong network of support. Caring for aging parents is never something that should be undertaken solo. This can quickly lead to depression, caregiver burnout, and a host of other health complications.
How In-Home Care Can Help
As an only child, partnering with Home With You Senior Care is an exceptional way to maintain a healthy life balance while ensuring the needs of your senior parents are met. Our fully trained and experienced care professionals are here with just the right level of care your parents need, through in-home care services such as:
- Medication reminders
- Assistance with baths/showers, getting dressed, and other personal care needs
- Fall prevention
- Meal planning and prep
- Companionship
- Transportation and errand-running
- Specialized dementia care
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- And more
Give us a call at 410-756-0959 or contact us online to learn more. We will work with you to create a solution that is customized to meet the needs of you and your loved ones. We’re pleased to serve families throughout Stevenson, Sykesville, Westminster, and the surrounding areas. Visit our Locations Served page to see if our award-winning home care services are available in your community.