The Challenges and Benefits You Experience When Caring for a Senior Parent

By Care Street Home Care Staff | June 22, 2023 | Comments Off on The Challenges and Benefits You Experience When Caring for a Senior Parent
Elder Care in South Brunswick NJ

Elder Care in South Brunswick NJ

Family caregivers are in a unique position where they take on a parental role in caring for their elderly parents. It’s often a balance of joyful moments and stress. You’ll face many challenges, but you also have opportunities that you’d never have imagined.

You’ll Really Get to Know Your Dad

When you’re helping your dad out, you spend a lot of time with him. Get him talking about his childhood and see if he’ll share stories you’ve never learned. You can jot them down in a journal to share with future generations.

Some of His Care Needs Can Make You Both Uncomfortable

If you’re having to help your dad with showers, oral care, toileting, or dressing, it’s uncomfortable. You may get used to it over time, but those initial weeks can be awkward for both him and you. Sometimes, it helps to have a paid caregiver handle your dad’s grooming and hygiene needs.

There’s More Time for Outings

As your dad’s family caregiver, you’re with him each day or several times a week. You can plan fun outings together. Take him to an easy hiking trail to stretch his legs and get the exercise he needs. As you walk, he may share insight with you on what a specific flower is or what bird is sitting in a nearby tree.

It’s Emotionally Challenging

You’ve watched your dad over the years. He was a pillar of strength for your family, but now there’s a lot he cannot do for himself. That’s hard to watch. You’re going to start feeling emotionally drained, and it’s hard to ignore how hard it can be.

It’s important to step away and have time to de-stress. Join a support group and let a paid caregiver take over while you’re away at a meeting or having lunch with other support group members.

You’re Directly Involved in His Care

You will be directly involved in your dad’s care. You will know what’s needed each day, what he’s starting to struggle with more than he used to, and what his healthcare needs are. You’ll have the opportunity to address concerns immediately and make sure he’s never struggling to complete something or risking his safety in the process.

Talk to his doctor about his health, how any chronic conditions are likely to progress, and what is needed to ensure he’s safe and happy. The more involved you are, the better the care services your dad receives.

Elder care services ensure your dad has the support he needs when you are unable to help him. You have to take care of yourself at the same time you’re helping him. With elder care services like respite care, he has a caregiver helping out when you’re unable to.

If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in South Brunswick, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care today. Call (732) 607-8870.

Care Street Home Care Staff
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