Providing care for an aging parent can be a bit more challenging as an only child, but these tips can help.
Being an only child has its perks. During childhood, you never had to experience sibling rivalry or squabbles, and you had the advantage of receiving all the attention and love of your parents. As an adult without siblings, however, you may now find that it’s your turn to provide all of the care your parents need.
There are certainly benefits to this as well. You can make all the essential decisions without the need to consult with siblings. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about conflicts and elevated emotions that often manifest among siblings due to the stress of providing care for an aging parent.
The disadvantage, however, is the fact that it is a huge responsibility to care for your parents by yourself. These tips can help.
- Bring in reinforcements. If you suspect your parents may need some help at home, it’s 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 adults 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’re active and healthy now, it’s smart to start to formulate a plan for their future care needs. Sit down with your parents and have an open and honest talk about their wishes. This discussion should include an overview of finances and confirmation that all essential paperwork is in place: power of attorney, do not resuscitate order, will, etc.
- Watch out for signs. Keep your finger on the pulse of your parents’ ability to handle everyday activities of living independently. Are they paying bills and balancing the checkbook? Is the home being maintained and kept clean? Are they maintaining 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 unattended cooking, etc.?
Once the need for assistance at home is established, you will want to build a strong network of support. Providing care for an aging parent is never something that should be undertaken solo. This can quickly lead to caregiver burnout, depression, and a host of other health complications.
How In-Home Care Can Help
As an only child, working with Compassionate Nursing Services is a fantastic way to maintain a healthy life balance while making sure your parents’ needs are met. Our fully trained and experienced care professionals are here with just the right level of care your parents need, through services such as:
- Meal planning and prep
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Fall prevention
- Assistance with baths/showers, getting dressed, and other personal care needs
- Transportation and errand-running
- Medication reminders
- Specialized dementia care
- Companionship
- And much more
Contact us online or give us a call at 314-432-4312 and for a consultation. We can listen to your concerns and work with you to develop a solution that works for you and your loved ones. We are pleased to serve families throughout Town and Country, Clayton, Oakville, and the surrounding areas. Visit our Service Area page to see if our award-winning home care services are available in your area.