5 Essentials When Caring for an Elderly Relative

For many adults, there comes a time when a little extra help is needed to take care of day-to-day tasks. Aging is an inevitable part of life, and you may find yourself needing to lend a hand to a parent or other elderly relative.

So what kinds of things should you anticipate when caring for someone? Keep in mind that everyone’s situation varies, but there are some things that are universal needs when providing care for an elderly relative. Many older adults want to stay within their own environment and would like to consider in-home care, such as from companies like careforfamily.com.au where they can receive care without having to leave their homes. Here are five of the essentials that you will want to consider. In the meantime, it may be worth considering becoming a registered NDIS provider. This will provide you with expert training and connections which can greatly help with your in-home care, and gives you the option of beginning a small business or working with the elderly professionally. If you’re interested, you can read a free NDIS registration guide here.

1. Their Own Space

If you are bringing this individual into your home to live with you, it’s important that they have a space to call their own. It could be as simple as their own bedroom and bathroom, or as elaborate as an entire basement. Let them decorate it with their own items. Help them store all of their belongings and clothing. Make it as comfortable and homey as possible for them to help with the transition.

2. Bill Management

If your parent or elderly relative isn’t moving in with you but is still in need of assistance, you’ll want to consider managing their bills and checking their mail. You don’t want anything to be left unattended, especially things like mortgage payments and water bills. Consider talking to them about getting access to their bank account so that you can take the responsibility off their plate.

3. Items for Toilet Hygiene

The next thing you’ll want to consider is what items you need on hand to help them with toilet hygiene. This could look like getting them a special bidet attachment for their toilet, or perhaps installing bars on the sides of the toilet to help them sit down and stand up. One must you will want to stock up on is incontinence products for women – they are an easy way to ensure coverage, comfort, and protection for your parent or elderly relative.

4. Scheduled Outings

Make sure you’re creating opportunities for your loved ones to get out by taking them on scheduled outings. It could be as simple as going out to lunch together to one of their favorite restaurants, going grocery shopping together, or even visiting a museum or going to a movie together. They’ll be happy to get a chance to get out of the house.

5. Medication Monitoring

One of the most important things you will want to take on is medication monitoring. Ensuring they are getting the right medications in the right doses at the right times and at the right intervals is extremely important. If they don’t already have one, get a medication box to help you keep track of everything. Depending on the situation, you might want to accompany them to a doctor’s appointment to get more details on their medications.

Caring for an elderly relative is a big responsibility to take on. Make sure you have all of the right essentials and expectations to make a great experience!

Thanks for reading xxx