“Parenting your parent” is a phrase you don’t think about until you’re in that position. For years, your parents set rules and boundaries for you to follow. When you become an adult, you may find yourself suddenly caring for your parents. Now, you’re in a parental role, and it’s not always easy to become a parental figure to your aging parents. These tips make it easier for you and your home care provider to handle this shift.
Take It One Day at a Time
You’re going to have good days, but others will be challenging. Don’t expect every day to go perfectly. Your parents may find it difficult to rely on you for help. That can lead to frustration and even anger. If they lash out, try not to take it personally.
When tempers are high, you might want to walk to another room for a few minutes. Take a few deep breaths to lower stress. A walk around the yard or neighborhood also provides that essential break to prevent emotional outbursts.
What caused tempers or emotions to flare? Suppose your mom has Alzheimer’s disease. You asked her if she wanted soup and a sandwich, and she said yes. She won’t eat, however, and wants an egg and toast. You told her no, and it upset her. Give it a few minutes, and she won’t likely remember any of this conversation.
Balance Chores and Entertainment
It’s important to check off tasks from the daily to-do list, but don’t make the day all about housekeeping and care needs. Leave time each day for fun activities and entertainment.
You have a busy schedule as it’s laundry day. You’re not sure how you’ll find time for laundry, medication reminders, meal preparation, pet care, and daily exercise. And, you also need time to do things that make your parents feel engaged and happy.
Make sure you’re balancing chores with entertainment and activities. You vacuumed a few days ago. Because your parents have pets, you clean frequently. Would it ruin the day if you pushed back vacuuming for a day? If you need to skip a chore to make sure you have time for hobbies and other fun activities, it’s okay to do so.
Know Your Limits
Have clear limits in mind regarding your parents’ care needs. Ask them for input on what they would find too uncomfortable to ask you.
You don’t want to help your parents with toileting if it ever comes to that. Your mom and dad make it clear that they wouldn’t want you to help them with personal care, hygiene, and grooming. Respect their wishes and keep your limits in mind. Hire professional caregivers for those tasks.
Take Breaks Often, Call In Home Care
Put your mental and emotional health first. It’s hard to take care of aging parents, and you need to support your health by taking breaks. Reach out to a home care agency and ask about respite care.
Respite care is a service for family caregivers who need time off. Let home care aides help your parents while you go on a vacation, take a few days off, or have a date night. Call a home care agency to learn more.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Care in Menlo Park, CA, and the surrounding area, call the caring staff at Aviva In-Home Care.
Call today: (415) 795-2203
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