Balancing time between caring for your aging parents and your young kids isn’t easy. You might be worried about how to keep seniors safe when you’re not with them. With so much to do in your daily life, you can’t always be there to care for an elderly parent or relative, even if you want to. However, there are many ways to give your parent the care they need, even without being there in person to do so. Read this guide for tips to keep seniors safe at home.
Safety-Proof Their Home
Part of not being at your aging parent’s side means needing to adjust their home life. Take some time to safety-proof their home. The last thing any child wants is to see their parent fall or injure themselves, especially if they’re older and less physically mobile. Fortunately, there are many ways to safety-proof their home. Place slip-proof mats in bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms to reduce falls. Install handrails for improved stability. Also, if your senior requires a wheelchair or walker, consider installing a stair lift. You may also want to consider a medical alert system that will signal for help in case of injury or accidents.
Move Them Into Assisted Living
One of the most efficient ways to keep seniors safe when you’re not there is to move them into assisted living. That said, you should always talk to your senior before making any final transitions. Research top-quality assisted living facilities with exceptional care that fits your budget. Don’t force your senior to live there if they don’t want to. However, if you feel it is in their best interest, talk to them about the amenities, benefits, and care they’ll receive. Assisted living facilities have the resources to care for your loved one in a safe, secure environment.
Hire an In-Home Caregiver
In-home caregiving is a unique option to consider. It’s one of the best assisted living alternatives to consider if your senior doesn’t feel comfortable in an assisted living home. Ultimately, in-home care is the perfect solution to give your senior the care they need but still allow them to remain in the comfort of their own home. Remember to look for a caregiver who’s trustworthy and experienced in geriatric nursing.
Turn Caregiving Into Quality Family Time
If you are the main caregiver for your aging parent, it can feel like you’re having to divide time between your kids and your parents. However, caring for elderly parents can be a great opportunity to spend quality time together across multiple generations. Look for simple activities that are easy for everyone to do together. Puzzles and coloring books are an excellent activity for seniors and young kids. Reading books together is another fun and easy activity. It can also be a great opportunity for kids to discover their family history. Get the conversation going by looking through photo albums together.
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