As people live longer lives, it is not uncommon for children to find themselves in the role of caregiver for their senior parents. Before, the expectation was that a person’s parents would pass away before they reached old age, so the children would never have to care for them. But now, children may find themselves in the position of having to care for elderly parents while still trying to juggle work and raising their own families.
The global life expectancy rate in the 1950s was only 48.1 years old for men and 52.9 years for women. Today, that number has increased to over 52.9 years for men and 75.6 years for women. This shift has led to new challenges for many who are now caring for their elderly parents.
Here are some of the most common issues you may face when parenting your elderly parfents:
Financial Burden
One of the biggest challenges of caring for senior parents is the financial burden it can place on the family. According to reports, up to 40.4 million family caregivers of adults ages 65 and older in the U.S. They are unpaid caregivers who have to take time off from work or make other sacrifices to care for their loved ones.
The out-of-pocket costs of caregiving can add up quickly. In fact, a study found that caregivers in 2007 spent an average of $5,531 on caregiving costs. These costs can include everything from medical expenses to hiring in-home care services.
One can avoid this by planning and having conversations about finances early on. It is also essential to ensure that you are familiar with your parent’s financial situation and have access to their accounts in case of an emergency. It also makes sense to seek assistance from a financial planner to help you navigate this issue.
Emotional Toll
Caring for an elderly parent can also take an emotional toll. Watching your senior parent decline in health and lose their independence can be challenging. Many caregivers also feel guilty about not being able to do more or feeling like they are not doing enough.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this. There are millions of other people in the same situation. It is also essential to take care of yourself and ensure you get enough rest, exercise, and healthy meals.
If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a support group or counselor for help. They can help you overcome the emotional challenges of caregiving. They can even provide you with resources to help you better care for your parent.
Physical Strain
Providing care for elderly parents can also be physically demanding. If your parent is ill or has mobility issues, you may have to lift them or help them with basic tasks like bathing and using the restroom. This can take a toll on your physical health, especially if you are not used to lifting heavy objects or performing strenuous activities.
It is essential to take breaks when needed and ask for help from other family members or friends when possible. You should also ensure to stay healthy by eating right and exercising regularly.
Another way to fight physical and emotional strain is to set caregiving boundaries with your parents. This is especially true if your senior loved one needs hospice care. Professionals can help with this type of care, so you don’t have to do it yourself.
The key is finding the right agency to provide hospice care services at home. This way, you can still be involved in your parent’s care while getting the respite you need. You can also use this opportunity to join a company that delivers quality care for patients and families. If you qualify, you can get a job as a hospice nurse or nurse’s aide so you can help other families in need.
Time Commitment
Another big challenge of caregiving is the time commitment it requires. Many caregivers have to give up their jobs or cut back on work hours to care for their parents. This can lead to a loss of income and benefits, which can burden the family.
It is important to try to find a balance between work and caregiving. If possible, see if you can arrange your work schedule around your parent’s needs. You may also want to consider hiring in-home care services to help with some tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. This can free up some of your time to focus on other things, like work.
Maintaining Respect
It is also crucial to maintain respect for your parent, even as they age and lose their ability to care for themselves. Many caregivers find it difficult to see their parents in a vulnerable state and may start to treat them like a child. This can be frustrating for both you and your parents.
It is important to remember that your parent is still an adult and should be treated as such. They may need help with some tasks, but they still have the right to make their own decisions. You should also try to keep the lines of communication open so you can talk about any concerns or issues.
Caring for an elderly parent can be a big challenge, but it is also a rewarding experience. It is essential to be prepared for the challenges you may face and seek help when needed. With the right support, you can successfully care for your parent while maintaining your health and wellbeing.
