We want our parents to live forever, with energy and health. And because we want this, it can be hard to accept when Mom or Dad needs help.
鈥淲e鈥檝e found that a lot of families know they need help, but delay hiring at home care. That delay often has serious consequences. Instead of managing the situation and keeping their parent at home longer, delaying care often means we have to facilitate a rapid move to long-term care or a hospital,鈥� says Kristina Bradley, owner of a franchise serving Abbotsford, Aldergrove, 91原创 and Surrey.
Hiring a home care Nurse or Caregiver isn鈥檛 a defeat; it鈥檚 an act of love that enables both you and your parent to live richer lives. And if you act early, you鈥檒l not only help your parent stay healthy, you can extend the years you get to spend being a son or daughter 鈥� not an exhausted caregiver.
- Self-neglect: Changes in the cleanliness of your parent鈥檚 home or their level of personal hygiene can indicate that they鈥檙e having trouble. 鈥淚nstead of criticizing what you see, offer your support. Reassure your loved one that you鈥檙e not trying to change their lifestyle or take away their independence. Your only goal is to ensure they鈥檙e comfortable at home as they age,鈥� Bradley says.
- Memory troubles: Forgetfulness can be a natural part of aging, but if your loved one is losing track of the time of year or getting lost in familiar places you should speak with a medical professional. 鈥淥ur nurses can help keep your loved one safe, and also offer exercises and companionship that can improve their memory.鈥�
- You鈥檙e stretched too thin: Taking on the responsibility of caring for your loved one is a huge act of love and kindness. But it can also take its toll. Trying to manage your own household, your job, your children and all the other responsibilities that come with adult life can be exhausting. Signing up for the duties of a caregiver may be too much to handle. You can鈥檛 help others for very long if you鈥檙e not taking care of your own mental health.
If you think a home care nurse might help, start by writing out your current routine to get a sense of the care that鈥檚 needed. Do you visit daily or weekly? Do you do the grocery shopping, or help in the garden? Don鈥檛 forget the fun stuff! Nurse Next Door can help your loved one bake, volunteer or give them time for piano lessons. Once you understand what you need, you鈥檒l have a better idea of the services your loved one requires.
To book your free caring consult, call the local care team 24/7 at 778-600-0680. Learn more at .
