If you’re an only child taking care of aging parents, these tips can help you find balance and support.
Being an only child has its perks. Growing up, you never had to experience sibling rivalry or squabbles, and you also had the advantage of getting all the love and attention of your parents. As an adult without siblings, you may now find that it is your turn to provide all the care your parents need.
There are certainly benefits to being an only child taking care of aging parents as well. You can make all of the essential decisions without having to consult siblings. You also don’t have to worry about conflicts and elevated emotions that often manifest among siblings due to the stress of caring for older parents.
The downside, of course, is the fact that it’s a tremendous responsibility to provide care for your parents on your own. These tips can help.
- Bring in reinforcements. If you suspect your parents may require some help in the home, it’s smart to first schedule an appointment with the doctor to discuss your concerns. A trusted professional can often have more of an influence on older loved ones and the need for intervention to ensure safety.
- Prepare early. The need for help at home as your parents age is highly likely. So even if they’re active and healthy now, it is a wise idea to start to formulate a plan for their future care needs. Sit down together and have an honest and open conversation about their wishes. This discussion should include an overview 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 manage everyday activities of living independently. Are they paying bills and balancing the checkbook? Is the home being cared for and kept clean? Are they keeping up with personal hygiene? Are there any warning signs of dangers such as cluttered rooms that could cause a fall, scorch marks on pans that could indicate forgetfulness when cooking, etc.?
Once the need for help in the home is established, you’ll want to build a strong network of support. Caring for aging parents is never something that should be undertaken solo. This can quickly lead to depression, caregiver burnout, and a host of other health complications.
How Home Care Can Help an Only Child Taking Care of Aging Parents
As an only child taking care of aging parents, partnering with Inspired Home Care is a great way to maintain a healthy life balance while ensuring the needs of your parents 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:
- Companionship
- Specialized dementia care
- Medication reminders
- Transportation and errand-running
- Fall prevention
- Assistance with baths/showers, getting dressed, along with other personal care needs
- Meal planning and prep
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- And much more
Contact us online or at 847-787-7572 for a consultation. We will listen to your concerns and create a solution that works for you and your loved ones. We are pleased to serve families throughout Gold Coast, Arlington Heights, Barrington, and the surrounding areas. Visit our Locations Served page to see if our award-winning home care services are available in your area.