Although it’s a natural part of life, watching your parents age isn’t always easy. Sometimes you blink and notice their hands aren’t as smooth as they were when they drove you to school when you were a child. Perhaps, their memories aren’t as sharp as they used to be, or they are slower getting around than they used to be. Just like they looked after you, you want to take care of them as an adult. There are multiple ways you can help your parents stay independent and age with grace and peace.
Communication Is Essential
Communication is probably the most drastic change that has happened in your parent’s lifetime. When you help them pick out a cell phone, they will have an easier time keeping in touch with family, read text messages, and have an emergency device. Some phones include the ability to allow users to record a message and it’ll send as a text message so your parents will never have to type. Major phone companies occasionally offer free classes to teach seniors how to use smart phones.
Smooth Financial Woes
Another way you can help your parents is by assisting with handling their finances. What was once just balancing a checkbook, is now a complicated world of online banking. Very few people know you can ask the bank to compare your transactions to your checkbook. They can advise you of any transactions that you did not make. You can also call the bank when you need a bill paid and they will gladly assist you in setting up the payment transactions for you.
Ease Tasks With Delivery
As they grow older and medical problems increase, it may become harder to accomplish everyday tasks such as grocery shopping or running errands. Luckily, there are stores that will now bring the groceries to the house. You can pre-arrange a shopping list and it will be delivered weekly. If your loved one needs a last minute item, it isn’t expensive to schedule an extra trip, depending on the store it may only be an extra $10 on the monthly bill.
Additionally, a lot of insurance companies will pay for your medications to be delivered to the home on a set schedule. This way, your loved ones will never run out of their medicine. There are also small family owned pharmacies that will deliver within a specific radius of the pharmacy.
Don’t Forget To Visit
One of the best things to do for your family is tending to their emotions. Often we get so caught up in our lives we forget our parents were there for us when we needed them. Loneliness sets in and they may become depressed. Visit them as much as you can and if you don’t live in the area, try to arrange for a neighbor or family friend to stop by.
With these tips, you can help your parents stay independent and ensure their well-being. Helping your parents age gracefully doesn’t mean they’ll lose their independence. You can gently guide them through difficult tasks and establish routines to make your loved one’s life function smoothly. Always remember they are still the same people who cared for and guided you through childhood, now it’s time to return the favor.