Five things to note when caring for elderly parents…

Identify needs: It’s important to take notice of people as they age to ensure they are still capable of doing things for themselves. An ability to cook, bathe, mobility and underlying health problems are some of the signs you should look out for.

Work out a plan: Living and visiting arrangements need to be arranged. A good idea is to organise a meeting and take turns at working out a roster for visits and living arrangement that suits everyone. Professional and full-time care may become inevitable down the road, but every effort to work around the elderly person so that they can remain at home for as long as possible will be beneficial to them.

Budgeting: Caring for aging parents is often expensive so you must budget wisely. Check out what eligibility there is for receiving financial support from the government. Take advantages of any programmes that can help reduce costs.

Communication is key: Make free time in your week to visit, talk and listen to elderly people. This is appreciated given that they might be on their own for most of the day. Visiting often is advisable.

Best care: Avoid any leaning towards an attitude that caring for an elderly parent is a burden. They have spent most of their life caring for you, and bringing you to where you are today. Remember that comfort and happiness goes further than friction and negativity does. Be supportive and provide those in the latter stages of life with the care they deserve.