In today’s busy world, and with our own families and kids to take care of, it can be challenging to make time to care for our aging parents. Work schedules are full and distance can make it harder. Here are some tips for caring for your aging parents and being attentive to their needs.
How to Help Your Aging Parents
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Teach them how to use technology – Technology such as Smartphones and computers can help to bridge the communication gap and help them feel connected. Being able to do a Facetime call and see each other makes you feel closer. They will also like seeing you, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren.- Stay in-touch frequently (In-person or phone) – The COVID Pandemic has made this more of a challenge, but loneliness, isolation, and mental health can also be a concern. If in-person visits are not feasible or safe, reach out to them via phone on a regular basis, such as over your lunch break, in the evening, or on Sundays.
- Bring your parents on outings – Even a simple outing together for a walk, out for lunch, or a shopping trip can be refreshing. Getting out of the house to get fresh air and a change of scenery together is a great time to connect, too.
- Help them with errands when needed – Especially during a pandemic and winter months, helping your aging parents with errands such as picking up groceries or medications can be extremely helpful. You could also help them by setting up a grocery delivery service for them.
- Bring them dinner (or invite them over) – A family dinner with your elderly parents is a great time to connect, lessen their burden of cooking, and provide them with a healthy meal. Here are some great foods and recipes for seniors.
- Teach them ways to manage stress – As our elderly parents’ needs and abilities change, it can become more stressful for them. The pandemic, political issues, or the news can also cause them to worry. Watch for signs of anxiety in your elderly loved ones and teach them ways to reduce stress.
- Be attentive to changing medical needs or memory issues – It is important to keep the communication open with your aging parents so that you understand how their health or memory may be changing. Here are some tips on identifying and caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or Dementia.
- Consider a caregiver or assisted living as their needs change – If your parents’ healthcare or household needs are growing, it may be time to consider hiring a caregiver or long-term care in an Assisted Living Center. Despite misconceptions, Assisted Living Centers such as Twin Town Villa, can help your loved one to thrive in a safe and welcoming community.
When it’s Time to Consider Assisted Living for your Parents, Twin Town Villa is here to Answer your Questions.
At Twin Town Villa in Breckenridge, MN, we offer Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Care Suites to match the needs of each resident. We serve the communities near Wahpeton, ND, and Fergus Falls, MN. If you have questions about Senior Living options for your loved one or would like a virtual tour of our community, please contact us online or call 218.643.9542.