There will inevitably come a time when we need to parent our parents as they grow older into their last stage of life, needing extra assistance. This can be a demanding yet rewarding experience for everyone involved. Here are some ways to help aging parents as they need more support.
Give Them Space
As parents age, they will likely miss or even mourn the loss of the independence they once had. Grief is expressed in different ways. Giving space and being there for them when needed will help them accustom themselves to their new lifestyle better and more comfortably.
Be Mindful of Driving
Driving impairment comes with aging. Statistics show that most accidents happen within 10 miles of one’s house. Consider whether your aging parents can drive themselves and others safely, as skills required for driving decline with older age.
Give Them Grace With Moving
There may come a time when aging parents will need to move out of their homes and into senior living facilities. They may resist this change, so treating them with extra care and understanding is essential during the transition. Educating them on safety measures can be a way for them to understand the need for lifestyle changes. One such safety measure that is important to educate on is fall prevention. Older people are at higher risk of falling and injuring themselves. If this is the case, preventative measures may be necessary.
Conclusion
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) offers a free online seminar on planning for caring for aging parents. They also have a booklet for families on planning for caring for aging parents. There are also many free resources online to help with the long-term care process.
