Before You Provide Senior Care, Create a Respite Care Plan
November 21, 2018
Don’t jump in and provide senior care to an aging parent before you think about respite care. Even the most organized person can find caring for a parent overwhelming. Breaks are important. Here are things you must consider when it comes to respite care.
Your Mom or Dad May Not Love Having a Stranger in the House
At first introduction, your parent may see a caregiver as a stranger. You may find your mom or dad refusing to interact with a new caregiver. The earlier you get them acquainted with a caregiver, the easier it is when you need to go out.
Don’t wait until the last possible minute to hire senior care services. Arrange it so that you’ll be around for the first few weeks that a caregiver comes to the home. Be there to help the caregiver out and make sure your mom or dad adjusts with your help.
You May Not Be Able to Leave Your Parent Alone
You might think you’ll be able to leave your parent alone while you run errands. Some family caregivers do this and learn the hard way. Depending on your mom or dad’s situation, even a few minutes alone can be dangerous.
It’s early and your dad doesn’t get up until 10 a.m. Your kids miss the bus, so you drive them to school. It’s only a 10-minute trip, and he’ll sleep through it. When you return, your dad’s gone. He woke early and wandered off.
You Can’t Ignore Your Own Personal Care
Personal care covers more than the basics of showering, brushing your teeth, and getting dressed. You need to have time to see your dentist twice a year. You need time to go for a yearly health exam, get a haircut when needed, and socialize.
If your duties as a family caregiver are eating up so much time that you can’t take care of yourself, there’s a problem. You need to take a close look at your schedule and free up time so that you can take care of your own needs, too.
You may not have family members or friends who can take over and give you a break. Work schedules, family situations, and distance from a senior citizen all impact the possibility of caregiving. If this is the case, call a senior care agency. Caregivers in your parents’ hometown come to their home and provide care while you take a break. Call now to learn more.
If you are considering Homecare in Sewickley, PA, please contact the friendly staff at Liken Home Care. Call (412) 693-6820 or (855) 856-0551.