How to Best Care for Ageing Parents 

By Editor1SYS | December 19, 2019 0 Comments

Taking good care of ageing parents can be difficult, especially for those busy with work and family commitments. Even if you are able to make it a top priority in your life, it’s sometimes difficult to know where to start, and you may still wish to lean on extra support. 

Loneliness and boredom are very common amongst the elderly, and these issues can be amplified by health and mobility problems. Here’s some advice on how to care for your parents and help them get the most out of their twilight years. 

Visit Often 

Your parents are more than just people you have to care for. Even if they don’t need you to do something for them, they will be absolutely delighted to see you if you visit for no special reason. Besides, people can become increasingly isolated as they age, so regular social contact goes a long way towards keeping your parents happy and healthy. 

Encourage Them to Join Clubs 

If your parents don’t get out much, encourage them to join a local older person’s group. These groups host regular events and outings that are a great opportunity for your parents to get out of the house, meet new friends and have a laugh. 

Teach Them New Skills 

It’s never too late to learn something new. Teaching your parents how to use a mobile phone or tablet can open up a whole new world of information. It’s not just for entertainment purposes either — they could learn how to have shopping delivered and use it to ask for help when necessary. It’s also a great way for them to stay in touch with their grandchildren and relatives or friends who live far away. 

Consider Care Options 

Eventually, your parents might need some assistance with daily life. Make sure you’re prepared when the time comes. Whether it’s assisted living, a domestic carer popping in a few times per week, or a care home, make sure you discuss everything with your parents and get them used to the idea. For parents with dementia, Ashbourne House is a quality, long-term Bristol care home offering round-the-clock support. 

Help Them with Their Finances 

Older people are often targeted by fraudsters, so help you parents keep on top of their finances to minimise the chances of being targeted. Ensure that they understand how their finances work and double check their bills to make sure that they’re paying the correct amount each month. 

Take Them Out 

Everybody loves a nice day out with the family and it’s especially important for older people. Ensure that you go out regularly with your parents and let them know that you enjoy spending time together — it will mean the world to them. 

Home Security

Unfortunately, older people are particularly vulnerable to robberies, which means it’s important to ensure your parents have a good home security system in place to keep them safe. Help them choose one that’s user-friendly and can connect to a smartphone so that you can keep an eye on things, too.