Have you sat down with your dad and discussed his plans as he ages? If not, it’s overdue. Too many families don’t have plans in place to address different circumstances that arise as you age. Take time to discuss these six questions with your dad about aging in place and how in-home care can help,
Where Does He Live?
Is your dad in a city or suburb or is he rural? If he lives in a rural area, how easy is it for him to get to his doctor’s or dentist’s office? If there’s a medical emergency, how long does it take for paramedics to reach him?
If he has to wait half an hour or even an hour for paramedics, is anyone nearby to stay with him until they arrive? Anxiety increases when you’re alone and experiencing an emergency. If he’s alone, it’s not always ideal.
Are There Home Issues to Address?
Is his home able to adapt to his changing needs? If your dad fell and couldn’t climb up and down the stairs to his front door, what happens? Is there room on his main floor to accommodate a bedroom, living area, kitchen, laundry room, and bathroom?
If his home is on multiple levels with the kitchen on one floor, bathrooms on another floor, and bedrooms on the top floor, it’s not ideal. His home’s organization would need to be reconsidered to create a one-level floor plan.
What Health Conditions Are Diagnosed or Likely to Appear?
Does your dad have any chronic health issues that you need to address? For example, if he has gout, it can be debilitating at times. If his mobility is going to be seriously impacted during a flare-up, his need for in-home care has to be addressed. Even if it’s a temporary situation, you can’t ignore it.
Is He as Independent as He Used to Be?
Over the past months and years, how different is your dad’s mobility? Is he still as independent as he was or has that changed? If he’s not as active as he used to be, you need to consider why that is and take steps to address it.
How Much Socialization Does Your Dad Do?
Loneliness and isolation can impact your mental and physical health. Is your dad often alone? Does anyone socialize with him each week or are you the only visitor he sees?
In-home care services are important if he doesn’t socialize with many people. Have caregivers eat meals with him, take him shopping, and make sure he is as social as possible.
What Services Would Help Him Stay Independent?
Create a list of the care services your dad needs to stay independent. Maybe he needs help with housework or meals. He might need to have someone drive him around or join him on a walk.
As your dad ages, moving to a retirement community or in with one of his children shouldn’t have to be his only option. Talk to him about the benefits of in-home care and how he can have a helping hand to maintain his independence.
If you are considering in-home care in Cinco Ranch, TX, for an aging loved one, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.
Our Certified Nurse Aides, 24-Hour Live-in Assistants and Home Health Aides are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We also provide the security and confidence of 24-hour Telephone Assistance, so fast, reliable help is always available when it's needed. To learn more about our homecare services see our homecare services page.
Different people need different levels of homecare. To meet the requirements of our clients, At Your Side Homecare maintains consistent staffing levels of caring professionals. Homecare service is available for as little as a few hours a week, or as many as 24 hours a day, seven days a week
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