Things Your Parents Taught You About Care For Elders

Things Your Parents Taught You About Care For Elders

Whether you are preparing to move your parents into a home or are already in one or bringing them to assisted living facility Missouri, you should keep a few things in mind when caring for your aging parents. If you've been caring for your parents for a while, or you're just beginning to learn, these tips can help you make the most of your time with them.

Keep a Record of Your Loved One's Medical History

Keeping a record of your loved one's medical history can help you, and your loved one get the care they need. It can also help you ensure you have the information you need in an emergency. Keeping your medical information organized is essential whether you're a new or experienced caregiver. Here are some tips for doing so.

The first step is to make sure that your loved one has a complete and current medical history. To do this, you can ask for a copy of any records from the hospital or doctor. You may also want a copy of the patient's discharge summary. This document will detail the person's hospitalization and chronic medical conditions.

Another critical step is ensuring you have your loved one's insurance information. The health insurance company may have an online service that will allow you to access your loved one's medical records.

Avoid Caffeine in the Evening

Although it has been around for decades, caffeine remains a popular beverage for both the health-conscious and the not-so-health-conscious alike. If you're looking for a nightcap, it's best to avoid caffeine late in the day, particularly if you have a heart condition. The FDA's guidelines suggest you opt for an all-natural, caffeine-free, and non-alcoholic beverage. For instance, coffee may be your cup of tea, but you should steer clear of caffeinated drinks like colas, chocolates, and sweets. Caffeine is known to cause cardiac arrhythmia, especially in older adults.

As with any substance, the caffeine content of a cup of joe can vary widely from one brand to the next. A single glass of wine or a beer bottle may be less expensive, but you may feel like you're in a pub instead of at home.

Keep a Record of Your Loved One's Activities of Daily living

Keeping a record of your loved one's activities of daily living when caring for elders can be a helpful way to monitor their progress. This is especially true if you are dealing with dementia. Create a checklist of the most important activities to perform.

However, keeping a record of your loved one's ADLs may take time and effort. You should take your time and try to ask the right questions. You may also want to consult with family members, friends, and other experts.

Keeping a record of your aging loved one's ADLs can help you identify signs of deterioration and determine if additional levels of care are necessary. You may also want to discuss moving to an assisted living community.

For instance, if your loved one cannot perform one of the more mundane ADLs, consider having them participate in a Meals on Wheels program. Meals on Wheels provides cooked meals and assistance with activities of daily living.

Stay Connected With Your Parents

Providing elder care can be challenging. Stress can come from many different sources, from financial pressures to emotional strain. Therefore, it would be best if you were prepared to make the necessary changes to your life.

The best way to care for your elders involves multiple family members. This can help keep your parent socially connected. It also helps to keep them engaged in their daily routine.

If your parents live abroad, you must talk with them. You can ask about their lives, health, and how they plan to spend their remaining years. You also need to let them know that you love them.

It would help if you also were prepared to help them. Your parents may not be able to care for themselves anymore. They may require assistance with daily activities, meal preparation, and transportation. Getting help can give you peace of mind.

Your parents may also need someone to take them to doctor's appointments. If you travel a lot for work, it may not be easy to visit them. A mobile phone with pre-programmed numbers can be a reassuring way to connect with them.