They've been there for you. From a bruised knee to a broken heart, your parents have been there to support you through it all. They're getting older. It's important to talk to your siblings and parents about elder care.Topics You Need to Cover
One of the first things you should discuss is the preference for assisted living, home care, and family care. Family caregiving may seem like the ideal form of elder care, but it's very hard emotionally and physically. Plus, your mom and dad may not love the idea of having their adult child helping them clean up after going to the bathroom or washing them in a tub or shower.
Discuss medical care plans. If something happens, you need to know what your parents would want. Medical directives or living wills are important. This enables you to tell the doctors what to do if your parent cannot speak for themselves.
Ask your parents if they want to be organ donors. If they don't survive an accident or health issue, they may want to donate their eyes, liver, kidneys, lungs, and other organs to people who need them.
Places That Can Help
Start with your mom and dad's doctor. The family doctor is a great source of information and insight. The doctor will be able to tell you what health concerns are important to address right now and upcoming changes that will alter elder care needs. The medical office will also have forms like HIPAA and information on medical directives.
The Agency on Aging in your mom and dad's area is also a great resource. They can help you find programs that help with important services like Meals on Wheels or senior transportation. They'll also be able to help you with adult day programs and local home care services.
If possible, make an appointment with an attorney who specializes in elder law. Even if you only go for a consultation, the lawyer can offer advice on what you can do to make sure your parents' house is protected from liens for medical bills. Wills, medical and financial powers of attorney, and guardianship is also worth discussing.
Talk to Home Care Professionals Together
When it's time to bring in help, let your parents talk to the elder care agency. They'll be able to interview caregivers, too. Since they're the people who will be spending time with the caregivers, they should have some say on who you hire.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Stuart, FL, contact the caring staff at BrightStar Care of Jupiter. Call today (561) 741-1200.