- Plan ahead by hiring caregivers, creating a daily routine schedule, and preparing emergency contacts for your parents.
- Use local resources such as meal delivery, transport services, and housekeeping to uphold your parents’ independence.
- Consider independent living facilities that provide a safe, supportive environment for seniors, allowing you to pursue your passions.
- Open communication and involving your parents in decision-making processes are key to balancing caregiving and personal pursuits.
As you grow older, you realize that time is precious and you should spend it with the people you love. However, when you have elderly parents, you also realize that your passion, whether it is traveling around the world or pursuing a career, might require you to be away from home. This can be a dilemma for many families; you want to be there for your parents, but you also want to chase your dreams. This blog post will provide some tips on how to take care of your aging parents while still being able to follow your passion.
Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to ensure that your elderly parents are taken care of while you’re away is to plan ahead. Ideally, you should make arrangements before you leave so there are no last-minute crises. Consider hiring a caregiver or a nurse to take care of your parents while you’re away. You can also do the following:
Create a Schedule for Your Parents
Creating a schedule for your parents is an excellent way to ensure they maintain a structured and routine lifestyle in your absence. The schedule should include daily activities such as meal times, medication intake, physical exercise, and recreational activities. By sticking to a schedule, your parents can avoid confusion, and their caregivers will have a clear understanding of their daily routines.
Stock up on Groceries and Household Supplies
Before embarking on your journey, make sure to stock up your pantry and household supplies. Fill your refrigerator with easy-to-prepare meals and healthy snacks. Ensure that laundry detergents, toiletries, and other essential items are in ample supply. Additionally, if your parents are on medication, verify that they have a sufficient supply until your return.
Make a List of Emergency Contacts
Creating an accessible list of emergency contacts is crucial for your parents’ safety and peace of mind. This list should include phone numbers for their healthcare providers, local emergency services, family members, neighbors, and the pharmacy. Also, include your own contact information so they can reach you in case of an emergency. Ensure that this list is readily available, preferably in a central location like the refrigerator door or near the home phone.
Use Local Resources
Another way to take care of your elderly parents is to use local resources. This can include meal delivery services, transportation services, and even housekeeping services. These resources can help your parents maintain their independence and help them with their day-to-day needs. Here are some factors to consider:
Research Local Resources
Many communities offer a variety of resources tailored to the needs of the elderly. These can range from meal delivery services, which can deliver nutritious, home-cooked meals right to your parents’ doorstep, to senior-friendly transportation services that can help your parents get to their medical appointments or run errands. There may also be local housekeeping services that specialize in maintaining the homes of the elderly, ensuring they live in a clean and safe environment.
Ask for Recommendations
Seeking recommendations from trusted sources can be invaluable in finding reliable, local resources for your elderly parents. Reach out to friends, family, or neighbors who have been in similar situations for their insights and experiences. Additionally, consult with healthcare providers or social workers who often have a wealth of information about services in your community that can assist older adults.
Attend Local Events
Local events are a valuable source of information about resources and services for the elderly. Senior expos, health fairs, or community meetings often provide an array of vendors and organizations dedicated to elder care. These events offer an opportunity to directly connect with service providers, ask questions, and gather information. Attending these events not only helps in discovering local resources but also in understanding the community’s focus on ensuring the well-being of its elderly residents.
Get Them to Independent Living Facilities
Independent living facilities can provide a viable solution for those balancing the care of elderly parents with personal pursuits. Offering reliable independent living for seniors, these communities are designed to cater to the unique needs of older adults.
They provide a safe, supportive environment where residents can lead an active and fulfilling life while benefiting from additional services such as housekeeping, meal preparation, and social activities. This arrangement allows peace of mind for both the seniors and their families, knowing they are in good hands while the latter are pursuing their passions.
If possible, involve your parents in the decision-making process of choosing an independent living facility. This will give them a sense of control and help them adjust to their new surroundings.
Taking care of elderly parents while pursuing your passion might seem challenging, but it is possible. Planning ahead, using local resources, and considering independent living facilities can help ease the burden of caregiving and ensure your parents are well taken care of while you follow your dreams. Remember to communicate openly with your parents about your plans and involve them in the decision-making process. With careful planning and utilizing available resources, you can create a balance between caring for your loved ones and following your passions.
