Ways to Support Your Aging Parents




As our parents grow older, it becomes our responsibility to ensure they receive the care and companionship they truly deserve. The challenges associated with aging can be overwhelming, but there are numerous ways we can enhance the quality of life for our loved ones. One solution is embracing life at a senior community where older adults can feel supported at all times by onsite caregivers, explore their interests and to put it simply – thrive. In this article, we will discuss different ways you can support your aging parents and delve into the benefits of community living.

  1. Open and frequent communication about next steps. Maintaining open lines of communication is crucial when supporting aging parents. Regularly check in with them, both in person and through phone calls, to understand their physical and emotional well-being.If they ever sound lonely or mention having a hard time keeping up with their day-to-day chores, it may be time to approach the conversation about moving to an independent living community. Engage in a meaningful conversation and address their concerns about moving. Disclaimer: they will most likely be opposed to the idea at first. However, continuing to talk about next steps and reiterating that community life could actually enhance their independence – will help your loved one become more open to the idea.

  2. Care that enhances all aspects of their health. Encourage your loved one to prioritize their physical and mental health at every turn. Accompany them to medical appointments and help them manage their medications. This is especially important because one wrong dosage could cause a disastrous side effect that could alter the state of their health. For example, taking too much of one medication could make your senior parent feel dizzy, which could lead to them having a fall that puts them in the hospital. To keep your loved one physically fit and strengthen their balance, they should engage in regular exercise, such as walks or gentle yoga.

  3. Make safety modifications at home. If your senior parents would like to remain in their home for as long as possible, it’s important to ensure their living space is safe and accessible. Install grab bars in bathrooms, eliminate tripping hazards, and improve lighting throughout the house. Also, consider assistive devices like handrails and stairlifts if needed. Modifying their home environment will help prevent serious accidents and promote independence.

  4. Provide companionship and socialization opportunities. Loneliness and social isolation are big issues amongst the senior population. That being said, it’s important to encourage mom or dad to engage in social activities, join clubs, or participate in local community events. Alternatively, it helps to explore the possibility of  senior community options like those available at Lester Senior Living. In our community, residents often meet up everyday to enjoy a meal together, participate in group activities like trivia, or just to share conversation on one of our park benches outside. This network of friends and peers that’s made possible by senior living communities can help your loved one foster a sense of belonging and companionship.

  5. Opt for professional caregiving assistance. Sometimes, aging parents require more specialized care. Hiring professional caregivers can provide additional support, especially if you are unable to be physically present at all times. In-home caregivers can assist with daily tasks, medication management, and offer companionship throughout the day if your elderly parent would prefer to remain at home.

  6. Financial and estate planning. Help your parents organize their finances and plan for the future. Collaborate with them to ensure they have a well-structured retirement plan and access to appropriate insurance coverage. If necessary, seek advice from an estate planning attorney who specializes in senior finances.

Explore Community Life at Lester Senior Living! 

Supporting aging parents requires a multifaceted approach that addresses their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Looking into community living options, such as Lester Senior Living, can significantly enhance the quality of life for aging parents. At our community, residents can enjoy a range of amenities and services, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, delicious meals in our spacious dining room, planned social activities, live entertainment and more. Providing your loved one with a supportive and engaging environment is perhaps the best chance they have to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

If you’d like more information about community life at Lester Senior Living in NJ, please contact JCHC today and visit our website at: https://jchcorp.org

The original blog is posted on - https://jchcorp.org/ways-to-support-your-aging-parents/

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