The way a person ages can impact their health and life expectancy. What does it mean to age well? People have different opinions about aging well. Overall, aging well can mean being able to meet your needs without being a burden to your loved ones. Depending on activity level, lifestyle choices, and perspective, aging can have a positive or negative impact. Older adults who understand that age comes with changes and challenges are more likely to agree to senior care services. Once you and your aging parents understand this it becomes easy to use the available resources to keep your parents active, engaged, and happy. Whether you are taking care of your aging parents or have enlisted help, here is a short guide to help you.
Meet with a Home Care Agency
One of the most crucial things in this care guide is meeting with a home care agency. Never feel guilty for seeking help to care for your elderly parents. In fact, home health care services in Alexandria, VA, are the best since you get peace of mind when you know your parents are getting the support they need. Furthermore, you might not have enough time to give close attention to your parents. However, senior caregivers are present as long as you need them, giving your parents more help than you can provide.
Create a Care Plan
The key to long-term senior care is creating a plan and adjusting it with time. Plan how you will make an accessible and safe home for your parents. It is also vital to check if your parents have health insurance to cover medical bills. Check their financial status and critical legal documents that must be drafted and signed. If you do not have a specialist, enlist respite care to give yourself or the family member looking after your parents a break to relax or run errands.
Meet their Nutritional Needs
Proper nutrition also becomes a challenge for elderly parents since they may be unable to buy fresh food, prepare meals, or simply feed themselves. You must ensure your loved ones have easy-to-heat meals and healthy snacks to keep up with their health and energy needs. You can enlist help with grocery shopping and meal preparation.
Look for Warning Signs
There are warning signs that tell when there is an issue or when your elderly parents need more care. So, look out for these signs and inform other family members. The best option, once you notice the red flags, is to seek help and start using the senior care plan you have created.
Prioritize Activity and Exercise
In addition to nutrition, activity and exercise are vital for healthy aging. Therefore, part of senior care includes encouraging your parents to be active by going for walks, swimming, or exercise classes. Capital City Nurses provide specialists who help seniors with such activities. Proper nutrition and exercise help prevent cognitive decline and slow down dementia and Alzheimer’s progression.
In Conclusion
It is essential to create a checklist for caring for aging parents. You need to ensure they are living safely and comfortable in their home. Therefore, creating a plan and enlisting support is critical to ensuring your elderly parents live a happy life.