My mom and dad are living independently in their own home right now, but I am concerned for the future. When should I start looking at resources in the area to assist them?
It's always good to be proactive. First decide if you would like for them to receive assistance in their current living environment, move-in with a family member, or have them live in a retirement community. Look for professional advice, such as Senior Care Consulting, to help guide you in your search for appropriate resources. Next get a plan A, B, and C. Seniors' medical conditions can change quickly, so it's best to have a few options at your finger tips.
My dad and I have decided that it's time for him to get some extra help. He would really enjoy a retirement community. Does Medicare, Medicaid or insurance pay for those services?
Retirement communities are mostly private pay. Medicare will cover certain days for rehabilitation in a nursing center, and will also be of assistance when hospice care is needed. Medicaid is for very low income individuals or when a senior's funds start to deplete. Consult a financial advisor about a senior's private pay funding. It is important to know up front how much funding is available for care.
I am my aunt's only living relative. She's getting older and lives out of state. I think it might be time that she moves to the area. How difficult will it be to move her to a near by retirement community?
This is not an impossible situation. It's going to take a lot of communication and organization on your part. Take a few days to visit your aunt in her own environment. Observe what assistance she might need. Talk openly with her about the move and be compassionate about her fears. Together, map out a plan. Finally, work with senior care professionals in Delaware to help you with the details of the move. Hopefully this will help make for a smooth transition.
Dad has been in the hospital for weeks. He is being discharged in two days and now the social worker will not discharge him to live at home by himself anymore. What should I do?
Yes, you are in a crisis situation, but try not to panic. There are many resources in the Delaware area equipped to handle situations just like yours. First, reach out for advice. You do not have to handle this all on your own. Next, if you would like for him to remain in his current residence, home care agencies will bring care right to his home. There are plenty of us from the senior care industry that are standing by, ready to guide you through this situation. With the right professional help, this will become a lot easier on you and your dad.
I'm afraid that my mother might be experiencing memory loss. What are the signs I should be looking for?
Memory loss can be subtle in the beginning. Some clues to look for are: Check the refrigerator to see if she is eating the meals you brought by. Check the medications to see if they are being taken properly. Maybe your mother, who once was a fantastic house keeper, isn't keeping the house as neat or clean as she used to. Some people also have trouble with word finding, where they just can't seem to get their thoughts together or remember a commonly used word. Maybe they might seem agitated. Once memory loss starts to occur, it's time to start looking for help. Unfortunately, memory loss doesn't get better. If in the event your loved one walks outside unsafely, don't wait any longer. Seek help immediately.
My mother moved in with me and my family 6 months ago. Between caring for my children, my husband, and now my mother... I am exhausted! My siblings aren't any assistance to me. My mother and I are starting to resent each other. What should I do?
I'm sure you feel like you are being pulled in too many directions, and am finding it difficult to make any one happy. It's ok to ask for help. Getting professional help can help alleviate some of the stress between you and your mother.
What is the most important thing to remember when assisting an aging loved one?
Don't forget about YOU. Too many times, family members lose themselves in the process of caring for someone else. The stress, guilt and extra work can take a toll on their own physical condition, finances, and personal relationships. Reach out and get some help today. There are many resources available to assist you. Senior Care Consulting is here to light the way.