Adult Children Caring for Parents

Many parents choose to have only one child so that they can dedicate all of their time, attention and money on that child. In their minds this ensures that their child has the best life that they could possibly give. As a child this can make you feel special and give you tremendous opportunities that may not have been available to you had you had siblings. According to an investigation by ABC News, however, being an only adult child who is trying to provide senior care for aging parents can be lonely and stressful. Though trying to share care responsibilities with siblings can also create tension, being completely alone in the care can quickly become overwhelming.

If you are facing the prospect of providing total senior care for your aging parents, it is important that you accept that going at it on your own is hard and that seeking help is important for your own well-being as well as that of your aging parents. This is especially true if you don’t live close to your parents. As an only child you may feel that your parents are isolated and that they will not get the care that they need when you are not visiting. Fortunately, there are many resources available to guide you through making decisions regarding the care of your aging loved ones and help you to put plans into place so that your parents receive the care that they need at all times.

Care Plans for Adult Children Caring for Parents

When developing your parents’ care plan it is important to keep certain things in mind. These include:

• Any medical concerns that they may be dealing with and the treatment guidelines established by their physicians

• Mobility issues and how they will be addressed

• Their finances, including what bills need to be paid and when. It can be extremely helpful to establish automatic bill pay so that you know that these important matters are being taken care of monthly

• Emotional and social support including friends and other family that can visit or senior care companions that can spend time with them on a regular basis

It is important that you remember that your emotional health should be taken care of, too. As an only adult child providing senior care for your parents you are going to get stressed and emotionally exhausted. Take time to find support through your friends and family, or seek out a support group with others in similar situations. Remember that no matter how close you are with your aging parents, you are going to need to take a break occasionally. Have plans in place to ensure that while you are away your parents are being well cared for so that you can rest and relax.

For all of your senior care needs in Woolwich Township, NJ and the surrounding areas call and talk to us at Home to Stay Senior Care Solutions at either our Cherry Hill office at (856) 321-1500 OR our Red Bank office at (732) 820-9611.