Every adult child knows that there will come a day where the roles will reverse and they will become a “parent” to their parents. As mom and dad get older, their ability to carry out even the simplest tasks can be hindered. Whether they’re suffering from serious medical issues like dementia, diabetes, or heart disease, or they’re simply experiencing a decline in mobility, vision, and strength due to old age, it will be your responsibility to make sure that they are safe, comfortable, and taken care of.

Deciding How to Care for Mom and Dad

One of the hardest choices you'll make with regards to watching over mother and father is the place they should live. While a few seniors can experience whatever remains of their lives in their homes (with some help), others require all day and all night mind. There are a lot of alternatives accessible including having a home wellbeing associate watch out for your parents in their home, you could have a few individuals from the family contribute and monitor your parents, you could search for helped living offices for seniors, have them enlisted in a nursing home, or you can move your parents in with you full-time. You'll need to talk these alternatives over with your parents to figure out which is the best decision for you and your family.

Mom and Dad Moving In

Many adult children find it easier, more affordable, and more comfortable for their loved ones if they move in. If this is an option you’ve chosen, you’ll need to fully understand the responsibilities and lifestyle changes that will come with it. Below, are a few things to consider:

Home Modifications for Seniors

Contingent upon the present health status of your parents there should be a few changes made to the house. These adjustments, both large and small, will make it less demanding for them to get around and furthermore lessen the probability of them stumbling and falling. Below are some to consider:

• Lifts - If your loved ones are disabled or suffer from arthritis which can make it hard to get around, you may need to invest in a lift. You can review information on stairlifts online to determine if it is right for you. Essentially, a stairlift attaches to the wall alongside your staircase. When carefully secured in the seat, the lift will transport your parents safely from one floor to the next.
• Grab Bars - The bathroom can be one of the most dangerous places and the easiest to slip and fall. To keep mom and dad safe while using the restroom or taking a bath, you’ll need to install grab bars near the toilet and in the bathtub. This provides them with more leverage to get up and down.
• Ramps - If your parents are wheelchair bound then you’ll need to have a ramp installed outside of the home for easy access. This may also include widening doorways to ensure the wheelchairs can get through.

Lifestyle Changes When Caring for Aging Parents

Your home is not the only thing that will need to be modified in order to make sure that your parents are safe and comfortable. You’ll also need to make some lifestyle adjustments. This can include but isn’t limited to the following:

• Schedule Changes - Much like caring for a child your parents' needs will have to come first. This means oftentimes changing your schedule to fit their needs. From making sure they visit the doctor to cooking for them, bathing, and helping them get dressed, there is a lot to be done which leaves little time for yourself.
• Career Changes - Unfortunately, some adult children end up having to leave their jobs to care for their aging parents full-time.
• Social Changes - With their increased need for help and limited time for yourself, some adult caretakers have gone on record stating how drastically their social lives have changed. They go out less, have less time to travel, and must always put the needs of their parents before anything else.

Though there are a lot of lifestyle changes that will take place, you can reduce the stress of caring for your aging parents by asking other family members to pitch in, hiring a part-time home health aide, and looking for senior services like free meals or transportation to medical facilities for appointments. Making the decision to care for your mom and dad in your home is a huge undertaking. However, it is often one that children prefer if they want to ensure they’re getting the best care possible. Before making this decision it is recommended that you look for solutions to help reduce the stress of the changes coming your way. With the support of others and a plan in mind, caring for your parents can be a lot more peaceful and rewarding.