You’re Helping Your Dad, But Who’s Helping You?
Since his stroke, your dad cannot manage activities of daily living without someone’s help. You jumped in to help, but you realize it’s more than you were expecting. It’s time to address some of the issues family caregivers face when caring for their aging parents.
Ignoring Their Health Needs
A percentage of family caregivers push aside yearly medical check-ups to free up time. Sometimes, it’s a case of spending so much time in medical offices with your dad that you simply can’t stand to go again.
Putting off your medical care is a bad idea. Regular exams are the best way to identify health issues in their early stages. You need to attend health exams on a regular schedule. That means things like mammograms, blood tests, colonoscopies, and measurements of height, weight, and blood pressure do not get pushed aside.
Poor Eating Habits
You spend so much time helping your dad that you’re not in a mood to cook when you get home. Instead, you pick up fast food or takeout. These high-salt, high-fat meals aren’t healthy. You need to find quick, easy recipes that offer the balanced diet you need.
Spend a day preparing meals you can put into a slow cooker. Aim for a type of lean protein, whole grain, and plenty of vegetables. Soups, stews, and casseroles can cook all day and include all of the components you need for healthy eating.
Lack of Socialization
You’re with your dad all day. You constantly tell your friends you don’t have time to meet up. Your social life is taking a hit, and you don’t know what to do.
You cannot let your dad’s care impact your social life. Ensure you’re taking time each week to be social. Go out with friends, have a small gathering in your home, or join a support group to have the chance to talk to others.
Too Little Free Time
Many family caregivers are sandwiched between generations. They’re caring for children, spouses, and parents simultaneously. You don’t have enough hours in the day to do everything for each member of your family.
When it feels overwhelming, it’s time to look into home care assistance. Have caregivers take over some of the tasks on your list. Things still get done, but you’re not the only one responsible for them. You free up time.
Home care assistance is the best way to ensure your dad has a helping hand while getting the break you need. Caregivers help your dad while you run errands, stay home and tend to your own needs, or go on vacation.
To arrange home care assistance, make a call. Talk to a home care specialist to get answers to your questions and to learn more about prices.