When You Need Help Caring for an Aging ParentWATCH SEGMENT ON KFOR-TV Taking care of an aging parent over a period of time – especially when juggling work and other family obligations – can be physically and mentally exhausting. Fortunately, help and resources are available for many different needs. Then list the types of care needed, such as simple companionship or doing active chores, like food shopping. Once you determine this, here are some tips and places you can reach out to for help. Caregiving Help You should also investigate resources in your parent’s town. Many communities offer a range of free or subsidized services that help seniors and caregivers with basic needs such as home delivered meals, transportation, senior companion services and respite services, which offers short-term care so you can take an occasional break. Call your Area Agency on Aging (call 800-211-2116 for contact information) for referrals to services available in your community. If you can afford it, you may want to hire someone part-time to help with things like preparing meals, housekeeping or even personal care. Costs can run anywhere from $12 up to $25 per hour. To find someone, ask for referrals through your parent’s doctor or area hospital discharge planners, or try websites like Care.com or CareLinx.com. Financial Aids BenefitsCheckup.org is another excellent resource to look for financial assistance programs that may help your mom or dad, particularly if they’re lower-income. Technology Assistance For example, there are medical alert systems (like Bay Alarm Medical, BayAlarmMedical.com), which provide a wearable “help button” that would allow your parent to call for help anytime she needed it. Or, you could install a video-monitoring camera (like Nest Cam, Nest.com/cameras) that lets you check in on him or her anytime via your smartphone or computer. These cameras have built-in motion and sound detection that will let you know when something is detected, and two-way audio that will let you talk and listen to them. There are even websites (like LotsaHelpingHands.com) that can help you more easily coordinate care with other family members. Insurance Questions? |