Resources for Adult Children Caring for Their Parents

Taking on the role of caregiver for your aging parent can be very stressful. When parents are aging there is a role reversal with children now having the responsibility of making decisions for parents who are not able to make safe decisions for themselves or live alone without supervision and support.Here are some suggested resources to provide support to you in your role as a caregiver for your aging parent:*County Resources –Contact your local Aging and Disability office and ask to have your parent assessed for home services to see what they qualify for.

*Support Groups – Aging and Disability services can connect you to a local support group for caregivers; these groups can provide you with connections and give you tips on managing your role as a caregiver.

*Home Cares – They may cost you money out of pocket but a home care can be a great source of support and respite. They can provide check-ins for your loved one and also be helpful with relieving you of giving personal cares such as bathing for your parent.

*Adult Day Programs – Take a tour of a program and you will see the many benefits of having a parent involved in a day program. They provide meals, socialization, medication passing, activities and often bathing.

*Geriatric Practitioners – More clinics are specializing in care for seniors. Geriatricians are physicians that specialize in working with the elderly. Finding a physician for your parent that knows the special needs of the aging population will provide a great resource for you.

*Assisted Livings and Care Centers – When it is not possible for your loved one to live at home alone, looking into an alternative living situation may be necessary. Tour some in your area prior to needing one. This way you can assess which ones you would like best without being in the “crisis mode” of needing one. You can usually take a tour at anytime but calling ahead to schedule one is best.

*Respite Care – Many care centers offer a “short stay” for people to give caregivers a break. Caregivers need to take breaks. Care centers are usually more than happy to help with a respite stay. Another option is hiring a live-in person for a short-term basis through a home care agency.

Being a caregiver is taxing physically and emotionally. Making time for you is very important. Fining resources to help support your role as a caregiver is critical to your well-being and to support you in maintaining your ability to also just be a son or daughter.