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Topics presented at our live & learn programs: information & screenings to help you stay healthy
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Caring For Aging Parents
One of the most difficult problems any of us will ever face is
caring for aging parents. No one plans to take care of a parent.
As the situation arises, it is then dealt with.
It is important to talk to your parents before a crisis. You
need to know your parents' needs and concerns. Is it important
for them to remain in the family house and where would they want
to live if they could no longer manage? Do they have life insurance,
wills, advance directives? Do you know where this information
is?
If you are in now caring for your parents, it is important to
take care of yourself. Accept help. Call on siblings for advice
and to share the responsibility. If neighbors or other relatives
offer a helping hand, accept it. If more help is needed, consider
a housekeeper and food delivery. Leave some time during the day
for yourself; even it's only five minutes. You need time to clear
your mind.
Don't forget to eat right and get plenty of sleep. Plan meals a week in advance, eat slow and relax. Go to bed early and take naps if necessary. Sleep bolsters your immune system and keeps your mind clear.
Moses Taylor Hospital and Children of Aging Parents have a caregivers support group meeting the second Thursday of each month. Call 570-340-2362 for more information.
The HealthInfo Library has the following books to help you better care for your parents and yourself:
The Complete Eldercare Planner
Failure-Free Activities for the Alzheimer's Patient
Coping with Your Difficult Older Parent
Baby Boomer's Guide to Caring for Aging Parents
Encyclopedia of Health and Aging
How to Care for Aging Parents
Parentcare Survival Guide
Caring for the Alzheimer Patient
Gentlecare Well Advised for People Over 50
Caring for the Parents Who Cared for You
The Complete Guide to Eldercare
Long-Term Health Care and it's Alternatives
The Nursing Home Experience
The Complete Guide to Aging and Health
Caring for the Caregiver
The 36-Hour Day
Aging Parents and Common Sense
The Alzheimer's Sourcebook for Caregivers