{"id":2366,"date":"2023-03-09T23:47:28","date_gmt":"2023-03-09T23:47:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/?p=2366"},"modified":"2023-03-09T23:56:40","modified_gmt":"2023-03-09T23:56:40","slug":"making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents\/","title":{"rendered":"Making Life Changes to Care for Your Parents\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Over time, aging adults\u00a0may require\u00a0more assistance\u00a0as\u00a0their physical strength and mental abilities begin to decline.\u00a0In addition, they may be more likely to have a chronic conditions that calls for care\u00a0beyond what they can manage on their own. Statistics from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/nchs\/health_policy\/adult_chronic_conditions.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CDC<\/a> show that over 80% of women and over 75% of men in the U.S. are living with one or more chronic conditions. So what should one keep in mind when looking to potentially become a caregiver for their mom or dad? \u00a0<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Assuming the Role of Primary Caregiver: What to Consider\u00a0\u00a0<\/h2><p>If you\u2019re considering becoming the primary caregiver for one or both of your parents, there are many things to keep in mind. Since your parent will be under your watchful eye, you\u2019ll have peace of mind that they\u2019re getting good, attentive care. On the other hand, there may be caregiving skills required that are beyond what you can provide, especially if your parent has a health condition that requires special monitoring or care. \u00a0<\/p><p><\/p><p>Being the primary caregiver for your parent will surely bring new responsibilities, and this may affect the time you can give to other areas of your life, such as your career and family. Of course, being able to care for your parent during this time in both of your lives may bring you lasting peace. \u00a0<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Some Signs That My Parents Shouldn\u2019t Live Alone?&nbsp;<\/h2><p>Some aging adults can make certain modifications to their homes and live there safely and independently \u2014 but everyone is different.\u00a0<\/p><p><\/p><p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-family\/your-home\/info-2021\/home-and-community-preferences-survey.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">recent survey<\/a> found that most adults in the U.S. would like to remain in their homes as they grow older. However, even though <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/aging-in-place-comfortably-make-the-most-of-golden-years\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">aging in place<\/a> is the preferred option for many, it isn\u2019t always the practical choice.\u00a0\u00a0Here are some indications that your aging\u00a0parents shouldn\u2019t be living alone anymore.\u00a0<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Memory problems&nbsp;<\/h3><p>Around 5.8 million people in the U.S. are living with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/aging\/publications\/features\/Alz-Greater-Risk.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Alzheimer\u2019s disease,<\/a> and the CDC estimates that this number will increase to 14 million by 2060.&nbsp;<\/p><p>Memory problems can have serious consequences for older people, such as:&nbsp;<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Getting lost and wandering out of their home or a public place&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Forgetting to lock the doors or turn off the stove&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Skipping medication doses and doctors\u2019 appointments&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul><p><a href=\"https:\/\/alzheimer.ca\/en\/about-dementia\/do-i-have-dementia\/differences-between-normal-aging-dementia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Memory impairment<\/a> is a normal part of the aging process, but once it starts affecting daily activities, it may be a symptom of dementia.\u00a0<\/p><p><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mobility issues&nbsp;<\/h3><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/injury\/features\/older-adult-falls\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related death<\/a> in people 65 and older in the U.S.\u00a0\u00a0The CDC estimates that more than 800,000 people are hospitalized due to falls each year, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/fall-prevention-checklist-for-aging-adults\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">fall prevention<\/a> has become a priority in the U.S. If someone is unsteady on their feet, they\u2019re at a greater risk of falling.\u00a0<\/p><p><\/p><p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/top-assistive-devices-aging-adults\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">home<\/a> can be modified for someone with mobility issues by installing grab bars, zero-step entranceways, and carpeted stairs. However, living alone can still pose a safety risk.\u00a0<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-full has-custom-border\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents-logicmark-01.jpg\" alt=\"An elderly person's hands grip the top of a cane. \" class=\"wp-image-2368\" style=\"border-radius:20px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents-logicmark-01.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents-logicmark-01-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure><p>A fall can happen at any time, and getting help quickly\u00a0is essential.\u00a0Take a look at LogicMark\u2019s bestselling <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/product\/guardian-alert-911-plus-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Guardian Alert 911 Plus,<\/a> and find out how it can provide peace of mind for you and your parent. <\/p><p><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Neglect of their home and hygiene&nbsp;<\/h3><p>When someone starts neglecting their home or personal hygiene, it\u2019s usually quite obvious.\u00a0If it looks like your parent hasn\u2019t showered, changed their clothes, or cleaned the house in a while, there could be one or several reasons for this, including:\u00a0<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Being forgetful\u00a0<\/li>\n\n<li>Not having enough strength\u00a0<\/li>\n\n<li>Suffering from depression&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Becoming increasingly isolated\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Struggling with basic tasks\u00a0<\/h3><p>This is a sign that can easily go undetected unless you make a point of visiting your parent for a few days at a time. It\u2019s important to be\u00a0in their presence long enough to observe how they run their household.\u00a0<br><\/p><p>During a short afternoon visit, you may not have the chance to see them struggle to prepare a meal or forget more than half of the groceries they\u00a0meant to purchase at the store.\u00a0<br><\/p><p>Your parent\u2019s quality of life will decline if they can no longer do basic daily tasks.\u00a0\u00a0For example, showering is one of the activities that older people often struggle with. If your parent has mobility issues and they\u2019re afraid of falling in the shower when they\u2019re alone, they may start skipping showers altogether.\u00a0<br><\/p><p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/product\/freedom-alert-emergency-wall-communicator\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Freedom Alert Emergency Wall Communicator<\/a> is a great tool that can help your aging parent feel more secure in the bathroom because they\u2019ll know help is there if they need it. \u00a0This water-resistant device offers two-way communication, allowing your parent to contact you or an emergency responder if an accident occurs, or when they need any sort of help.\u00a0<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Does it Take to Care for an Aging Parent?\u00a0<\/h2><p>If you\u2019ve decided to care for your aging parent, you\u2019ll need to be mentally, physically, and financially prepared for what awaits.&nbsp;<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Caregiving responsibilities\u00a0<\/h3><p>These duties vary depending on what your parent requires, as well as the environment you live in. Your duties as a family caregiver may include:\u00a0<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Providing physical and emotional support&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Cooking meals and cleaning the house&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Assisting with bathing, grooming, and using the toilet\u00a0<\/li>\n\n<li>Administering medication&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Providing transportation&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Ensuring the home is free of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/fall-prevention-checklist-for-aging-adults\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">fall hazards<\/a>\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-full has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents-logicmark-02.jpg\" alt=\"A younger woman sits at a table with an older woman. They are both smiling, and there is some food on the table such as a bowl of fruit. \" class=\"wp-image-2369\" style=\"border-radius:20px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents-logicmark-02.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents-logicmark-02-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Challenges to Anticipate\u00a0<\/h2><p>If you\u2019ve decided to go this route, here are some of the challenges you may encounter.\u00a0<br><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Drastic changes&nbsp;<\/h3><p>Whether you decide to move in with your parent or they come to live with you, be prepared for change. As your parent\u2019s caregiver, you may need to:\u00a0<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Change your daily routine&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Leave your job or take on less hours&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Adjust to having less privacy&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n<li>Get used to your social life being different\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Physical health\u00a0<\/h4><p>In most cases, caregiving tasks are a full-time job. If you do not have assistance and take on more than you can handle, you may experience\u00a0sleep deprivation along with body aches and pains if you try to do too much carrying or lifting. \u00a0You may also have an increased risk of developing chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes if you start to neglect your own health.\u00a0<\/p><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mental health\u00a0<\/h4><p>Increased isolation due to your family caregiving responsibilities can result in anxiety and depression. By prioritizing someone else\u2019s life, you may be putting yours second \u2014 even if you don\u2019t realize it.\u00a0 It\u2019s very important to stay connected with friends, seek help when you need it, and join support groups so you can open up to people who understand your struggles.\u00a0<br><\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-full has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents-logicmark-03.jpg\" alt=\"Two men sitting and engaging in serious conversation with each other. \" class=\"wp-image-2370\" style=\"border-radius:20px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents-logicmark-03.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/making-life-changes-to-care-for-your-parents-logicmark-03-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Financial challenges\u00a0<\/h3><p>Caregiving can be costly. And there aren\u2019t always siblings or other family members\u00a0who will be willing to split the costs with you.\u00a0Depending on the health care or retirement plan your parents are on, there may be a benefit for family caregivers. Be sure to find this out before you make a decision about your full-time caregiving role.\u00a0<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When is Caregiving Not the Best Option for Me?\u00a0<\/h2><p>This is a decision only you can make. If you decide you\u2019re not the best person to be your parent\u2019s caregiver, there are other options. You may want to explore in-home care and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/assisted-living-alternatives-what-are-the-best-options\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">assisted living<\/a>, for example. \u00a0<br><\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Can I Make It Easier to Care for My Aging Parents?&nbsp;<\/h2><p>If you\u2019re not ready to care for your aging parents full-time, there are tools and devices that can help you keep a close eye on your loved ones.\u00a0LogicMark has a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/shop\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">range of medical alert devices<\/a> to help give you and your aging parents peace of mind. So whether you\u2019re at work, out shopping, or simply in another part of the house, LogicMark can help you and your parents stay connected. \u00a0<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Over time, aging adults\u00a0may require\u00a0more assistance\u00a0as\u00a0their physical strength and mental abilities begin to decline.\u00a0In addition, they may be more likely to have a chronic conditions that calls for care\u00a0beyond what they can manage on their own. Statistics from the CDC show that over 80% of women and over 75% of men in the U.S. are [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":2367,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[52],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2366","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-caregivers"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2366","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2366"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2366\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2367"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2366"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2366"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.logicmark.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2366"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}