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adult daycare, resident care facilities, retirement communities, assisted living, nursing home, and hospice care. Here’s a brief snapshot of each:
In-Home Care—It’s no secret that many seniors are alert and inde- pendent enough to take care of themselves, but need assistance with things like grocery shopping, transportation, housework, and taking care of their finances. If such is the case, remaining in the home with either a paid caregiver or family member providing the necessary assis- tance can be a sensible, practical solution.
The fact of the matter is, as the aging process advances, an elderly person's health deteriorates. While in-home care can still be a viable option, the level or amount of assistance required may need to increase to ensure the senior's needs are being met. Examples of this increased level of support could include help with cooking and cleaning; admin- istering medications; and assisting with bathing, dressing, eating, and therapeutic care. In-home care can be provided by a family member or by a paid caregiver. While it is typically more cost effective to care for an aging family member yourself, the financial and emotional drain can be detrimental.
The National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) (www.nfcacares. org) offers the following 10 tips to help caregivers take care of them- selves while providing care for their loved one. The NFCA supports, empowers, and speaks up for the more than 50 million Americans who care for loved ones with a chronic illness or disability or the frailties of old age.
It’s important to note that in-home care provided by certified nursing care providers is another option if your elderly parent requires more medical attention than you can offer. Professional caregivers work through government-regulated agencies, and services are administered through physicians, social workers, nurses, and therapists. The level of care provided is similar to what is offered in a nursing home, while allowing the individual to remain at home.
Caring for Elderly Parents