Get our top tips for taking care of older parents when you’re an only child.
Being an only child has some perks. During childhood, you never had to experience sibling rivalry or squabbles, and you also had the benefit of receiving all the love and attention of your parents. But as an adult with no siblings, you may now realize that it is your turn to provide all of the care your parents need.
There are advantages to this as well. You are able to make all of the essential decisions without the need to check with siblings. Additionally, you avoid the disagreements and heightened emotions that often arise among siblings during the stress of taking care of older parents.
The disadvantage, however, is that it’s a huge responsibility to care for your parents on your own. These tips can help.
- Bring in reinforcements. If you suspect your parents may require some help at home, it is a good idea to first schedule an appointment with the doctor to go over 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 in the home as your parents age is highly likely. So even if they’re active and healthy now, it’s a smart idea to begin to formulate a plan for their future care needs. Sit down with your parents and have an honest and open talk about their wishes. This discussion should include an assessment of finances and confirmation that all important paperwork is in place: will, power of attorney, healthcare directive, etc.
- Watch out for signs. Keep an eye on 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 red flags of dangers such as cluttered rooms that could result in a fall, scorch marks on pans that could indicate forgetfulness when cooking, etc.?
Once the need for help in the home has been established, you will want to build a good support system. Caring for aging parents is not something that should be undertaken solo. This can quickly result in caregiver burnout, depression, and a host of other health complications.
How Home Care Can Help
As an only child, partnering with Abby Senior Care is an exceptional way to maintain a balanced and healthy life 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:
- Specialized dementia care
- Meal planning and prep
- Transportation and errand-running
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Medication reminders
- Fall prevention
- Assistance with baths/showers, getting dressed, and other personal care needs
- Companionship
- And much more
Reach out to us online or give us a call at 303-699-8840 and request a complimentary consultation. We will listen to your concerns and work with you to create the solution you need. We’re proud to serve families throughout Denver, Littleton, Aurora, and the surrounding areas. Visit our Service Area page to see if our award-winning care services are available in your community.