For more information about the author, click to view their website: Comfort Keepers
We’re
so used to our parents living independently that we don’t always notice when
they begin to struggle with handling daily activities. Changes can begin
gradually as they start to slow down, or they can happen quickly, when a parent
has an unexpected diagnosis or accident. No matter if you live across town or
across the country, proactively creating a senior life plan for your parents
will give you peace of mind and allow them to continue to live their lives to
the fullest.
Approaching
aging parents about planning their senior years can be a touchy subject for
everyone involved. As a general rule, it is recommended to start having these
conversations by the time you’re in your forties, or they’re in their seventies
(known as the 40-70 rule). Of course, you know your parents' habits and
personalities best, so you are the best judge of their physical and mental
health. Here are some factors that can determine the appropriate time to
initiate this conversation:
·
Start
the conversation early, using the 40-70 rule, so you have time to make or
change plans based on your parents' needs
·
Create
a comfortable and open environment for the conversation
·
Plan
more than one conversation so you can cover all possible issues
·
Take
notes so you remember what was discussed and can keep track of next steps
·
Keep
a list of all their passwords for accounts such as computer, email, phone, and
cable
Create
a Caregiving Plan
A
caregiving plan will ensure everyone is on the same page about the care needed
and how it will be handled as your parents age. If they require additional
care, consider how you can support their needs. This might involve coordinating
with local caregivers, hiring professionals to assist with certain tasks, or,
if you don’t live nearby, planning regular visits to spend time with them.
·
Have
a caregiving plan ready in case your loved ones need in-home care
·
Discuss
changes to your parents’ healthcare needs with their doctors
·
Research
different caregiving options
·
Find
out if your loved one has any specific needs to maintain their health and
happiness
Health and Medical Care
A
senior life plan starts with understanding your parents’ health statuses and
medical needs. When they are in excellent health, it’s essential that their
care and treatment preferences are detailed in a living will or advanced
directive and discussed with family members. Have this conversation now, during
the planning stage, rather than during a medical emergency.
·
Designate
a healthcare proxy who can speak with doctors on your loved one’s behalf and
make healthcare decisions, especially if they are hospitalized
·
Keep
a list of their medications up to date, including prescriptions,
over-the-counter medications, supplements, and vitamins
·
Keep
a list of your parent's doctors and specialists, including their contact
information
·
Ensure
they are following their doctors’ advice and taking medications as prescribed
·
Make
a note of the closest urgent care facility and hospital
·
Get
to know their primary care physicians
·
Discuss
your parents’ latest check-ups and help schedule upcoming appointments
·
Encourage
your parent to write a living will or advanced directive and keep a copy on
file
Safety
and Living Arrangements
Most
seniors want to remain in their homes as they age, connected to family,
friends, and community. If your parents are able to continue living at home,
consider home remodeling options to help them safely age in place. In addition,
develop an emergency plan with your parents and make sure they know what to do
in case of a natural disaster or other emergency.
·
Evaluate
the safety of their home and make modifications if necessary
·
Review
any mortgage or financial concerns about the home
·
Check
in regularly, either in person, or by phone or video chat
·
Consider
long-term care insurance in case long-term care is ever required
·
Develop
an emergency plan and list of emergency contacts
Social
and Support Network
A
strong social support network helps keep seniors healthy and active and gives
them a sense of connection, belonging, and purpose. This support can include
neighbors, friends, or other family members who can assist your loved one if
needed. If possible, foster connections with their support network to have
reliable contacts in case of emergencies.
·
Encourage
your parents to stay socially engaged and participate in activities that bring
them joy
·
Check
if your parents have a support network in their local community
·
Keep
the name and number of a neighbor who can regularly check on your loved ones
·
Create
a schedule of friends and family who call or regularly video chat
· Ensure your parents have access to reliable transportation when needed, especially if they don’t drive
Review
Finances
Discussing
finances can be tricky. Seniors sometimes want to keep their financial
information private, even from family members. Reassure them that they can keep
exact dollar amounts confidential, but make sure you have access to the
information if you need it. Have them assign a Durable Power of Attorney (POA)
to someone who can make financial decisions on their behalf. When going over
how your parents would like their finances handled, topics to discuss include
outstanding debts, homeownership, savings, and retirement funds.
·
Find
out what financial accounts are open and where they are held
·
Make
a list of advisors’ contact information
·
Ensure
they are making informed decisions about retirement, investments, and insurance
·
Stay
up to date on Social Security benefits
·
Check
that beneficiary designations are current
·
Make
sure your loved ones have a POA representative
·
Streamline
bill paying by setting up automatic payments
·
Ensure
they know how to avoid scams
Gather
Legal Documents
Discussing
and taking care of legal issues while your parents enjoy good health can ensure
everything is planned and understood. Make sure you know where your parents
keep their personal information and important documents in case you need them.
Go over everything together and meet with their estate planner so you can ask
questions about their wishes and how to ensure they are carried out.
·
Discuss
important documents and where they are stored
·
Find
out if your parents have a will and a living will, and where they are located
·
Make
sure their POA for finances and healthcare proxies are in order
·
Read
through their estate plan/will to make sure beneficiaries and responsibilities
are correct and up to date
Review
Insurance Plans
Regularly
review your parents’ insurance policies. It’s essential to know if their
policies are adequate, up to date, and where the accounts are located. This
information can help avoid undue financial burdens during medical emergencies
or accidents.
·
Make
a list of active insurance policies such as auto, home, health, long-term care,
etc.
·
Review
homeowners, auto, and life insurance policies to ensure they are adequate and
up to date
·
Review
health insurance coverage for any policy changes that need to be made based on
current or future needs
Aging Parents Checklist
Although caring for an aging parent often means taking on financial, legal, and other responsibilities, it can also be a time to reflect on happy memories and plan for a future that includes more joyful moments. The aging parent checklist below can help you ensure you’ve got all the bases covered when it comes to life planning and the next steps for your aging loved ones.
Although
caring for an aging parent often means taking on financial, legal, and other
responsibilities, it can also be a time to reflect on happy memories and plan
for a future that includes more joyful moments. The aging parent checklist
below can help you ensure you’ve got all the bases covered when it comes to
life planning and the next steps for your aging loved ones.
|
|
Communication |
·
Have
the conversation early so you have time to make or change plans based on your
parents' needs ·
Create
a comfortable and open environment for the conversation ·
Take
notes so you remember what was discussed and keep track of your next steps ·
Keep
a list of all their passwords for accounts such as computer, email, phone,
and cable |
Health and Medical Care |
·
Designate
a healthcare proxy who can speak with your loved ones’ doctors and make
decisions ·
Keep
an up-to-date list of all their medications, including over-the-counter,
supplements, and vitamins ·
Keep
a list of their doctors and specialists, including their contact
information ·
Ensure
they are taking medications as prescribed ·
Make
a note of the closest urgent care facility and hospital ·
Get
to know their primary care physicians ·
Help
schedule upcoming appointments ·
Encourage
your parent to write a living will and keep a copy on file |
Ensure Safe Living Arrangements |
·
Evaluate
the safety of their home and make modifications if necessary ·
Review
any mortgage or financial concerns about the home ·
Check
in regularly, either in person, or by phone or video chat ·
Consider
buying long-term care insurance ·
Develop
an emergency plan and list of emergency contacts in case of a natural
disaster or other emergency |
Create a Caregiving Plan |
·
Have
a caregiving plan ready in case your loved ones need in-home care ·
Discuss
changes to your parents’ healthcare needs with their doctors ·
Research
different caregiving options ·
Find
out if your loved ones have any specific needs to maintain their health and
happiness |
Social and Support Network |
·
Encourage
your parents to stay socially engaged and participate in activities that
bring them joy ·
Check
if your parents have a support network in their local community ·
Keep
the name and number of a neighbor who can regularly check on your loved ones ·
Create
a schedule of friends and family who call or regularly video chat ·
Ensure
your parents have access to reliable transportation when needed, especially
if they don’t drive |
Review Finances |
·
Find
out what financial accounts are open and where they are held ·
Make
a list of advisors’ contact information ·
Ensure
they are making informed decisions about retirement, investments, and
insurance ·
Stay
up to date on Social Security benefits ·
Check
that beneficiary designations are current ·
Make
sure your loved ones have a POA representative ·
Streamline
bill paying by setting up automatic payments ·
Ensure
they know how to avoid scams |
Gather Legal Documents |
·
Discuss
important documents and where they are stored ·
Find
out if your parents have a will and living will, and where they are located ·
Make
sure their POA for finances and healthcare proxies are in order ·
Read
through their estate plan/will to make sure beneficiaries and
responsibilities are correct and up to date |
Review Insurance Plans |
·
Make
a list of active insurance policies such as auto, home, health, long-term
care, etc. ·
Review
homeowners, auto, and life insurance policies to ensure they are adequate and
up to date ·
Review
health insurance coverage regularly for any policy changes that need to be
made as needs change |
Review Insurance Plans |
·
Make
a list of active insurance policies such as auto, home, health, long-term
care, etc. ·
Review
homeowners, auto, and life insurance policies to ensure they are adequate and
up to date ·
Review
health insurance coverage regularly for any policy changes that need to be
made as needs change |
This
checklist gives seniors and their families a way to confidently and
purposefully navigate the next few years. We offer resources with helpful
information and insights that help you care for your loved ones so they can
experience all that life has to offer. And if they need in-home care, we can
provide compassionate care that focuses on connection and purpose and
experiencing more joy every day. To learn more, contact us today.
The Mayo Clinic (www.mayo.org) states that in addition to financial limitations, physical, social, and psychological factors contribute to senior malnutrition, impeding seniors' ability to maintain a diet that provides the necessary balance of nutrients for healthful living.Below are leading contributing causes of senior malnutrition:Debilitating conditions that limit seniors ability to get out to shop, prepare meals and feed themselvesFixed incomes can prevent seniors from being able to purchase the groceries they need to stay nourished.Difficulty chewing and swallowing as a result of diseases such as Parkinson's, dry mouth caused by some medications, dental conditions, and poorly fitting denturesFrailty due to loss of muscle mass and fat, which can alter body chemistry, diminishing appetite, especially in seniors with serious illnessesMedications, such as some antidepressants, blood pressure, and osteoporosis drugs that diminish appetite alter the flavor of foods, and interfere with absorption of nutrientsReduced absorption of nutrients as a result of some physiological changes due to aging. For instance, in many seniors, reduced production of digestive enzymes and acids interferes with the breakdown of protein and absorption of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B-12, folate, calcium, and iron. Some illnesses, such as gastrointestinal cancers, diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel disease, can also cause this problem.Diminished sense of taste or smell that often occurs with aging. Some medications and illnesses accelerate or intensify this loss, depriving seniors of some of the pleasure associated with eating. These factors can affect appetite. Bland, medically prescribed diets can have the same effect. Natural flavor enhancers like garlic, onions, and spices can help counteract this.Dementia, which often prevents individuals from recognizing the need to eat. Some people with dementia need to be reminded to swallow.Depression, due to multiple causes such as grief, loneliness, retirement, poor health, and medications. Depression affects about 6 million American seniors.Alcoholism, which is often a hidden problem in the senior population, decreases appetite, destroys nutrients, and negatively affects seniors ability to care for themselves How Comfort Keepers can helpComfort Keepers can provide the assistance needed to help promote heart health, starting with nutrition. Whether a special diet has been prescribed or all required is a healthier meal plan, our caregivers, who we call Comfort Keepers, work with our clients to ensure they benefit from foods that promote optimum wellness.At Comfort Keepers, we believe in Elevating the Human Spirit by providing our clients with both assistance and daily moments of joy. With the help of our trained Comfort Keepers, seniors can enjoy a healthy lifestyle while finding pleasure in the everyday moments that make life worth living.
One in three hospital patients is malnourished upon admission and almost one-third of U.S. patients (31 percent) experiences declines in nutritional status while in the hospital.Dietary needs evolve as people age, and seniors need to know how to manage those changes to maintain physical health and wellness. Older adults need to take an active role in shaping their diet and nutrition habits to ensure more energy, better disease prevention and quality of life.Seniors should consult their physician to discuss their individual needs. Healthcare professionals can also help seniors and their families create and implement healthy eating plans.These plans often include: Increased protein and fiber intake. Protein and fiber are important nutrients for seniors. Foods high in fiber can help maintain healthy digestive systems as we age, and increasing protein intake can help seniors increase or maintain energy and strength. Whole grains have multiple benefits. Whole grains are also fiber-rich foods that not only aid the digestive process but promote healthy hearts for seniors. Cereal, rice and bread made with whole grains can easily be found at any grocery store and provide several serving choices to meet recommended daily requirements. Calcium is a key component in maintaining bone strength. Calcium can help prevent osteoporosis, especially when calcium intake is consistent. Preventing osteoporosis is critical for seniors especially those that are at risk for falls. Hydration is critical at any age. Physical changes that occur with age make hydration even more important for older adults. For those that are less inclined to drink water, there are alternatives milk, juice and broth are all hydrating liquids, and there are hydrating foods including watermelon, cucumbers and grapes. If engaging in good eating habits is a struggle, there are steps seniors can take to ensure that they are getting proper nutrition. In addition to consulting a physician about diet or health concerns they might have, they can also try the following tactics to get back on the right track: Make meals a social occasion Sharing a meal is one of the most enjoyable ways to ensure that someone is eating well. This can include making something healthy and delicious for others, or reaching out to people that love to cook healthy food and offering them some company at mealtimes. Make healthy eating fit your budget Good food doesnt have to be expensive. A doctor or nutritionist can point patients to budget friendly, nutritious food options. And maintaining a healthy lifestyle saves money on medical care in the future. Shop for healthy foods Having a kitchen stocked with healthy snacks and meal options is one of the most important steps to maintaining a balanced diet. Encourage people to ask for help If someone has concerns about their ability to plan healthy meals, shop for the groceries or if they just arent getting the nutrition they need, tell them to ask for help! In-home caregivers, delivery services, family, friends and medical professionals can all help older adults reach their nutrition goals.Comfort Keepers Can HelpIf someone is struggling to maintain healthy eating habits, consider getting support from the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers. Our caregivers can help with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and can help support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.ReferencesMayo Clinic. Senior health: How to prevent and detect malnutrition. Web. 2017.Next Avenue, Malnutrition is Affecting Too Many Older Adults. Web. 2016. Public Health Post. Malnutrition in Older Adults. Web. 2017 Healthline. How Your Nutritional Needs Change as you Age. Web. 2017.
Respite care is defined as the transfer of primary caregiving responsibilities to another person, typically a professional caregiver, relative or friend, in order for primary caregivers to receive temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities. Respite care takes many forms some family caregivers choose to have someone take on caregiver duties for a few hours a week or a few hours a day. Or, some schedule respite care for longer periods of time to accommodate an extended break or vacation. What You Need to Know When Caring for a Senior Loved One In its Caregiving in the U.S. report, AARP estimates that 39.8 million family members provided unpaid care to an adult in 2014 and 2015. And, the Centers for Disease Control reports that over half (53%) of caregivers indicated that a decline in their health compromises their ability to provide care. Caring for a senior loved one is both rewarding and challenging. Family caregivers need to remember that its important to take necessary breaks and practice self-care so they can ensure that they continue to find joy in their role.This can be particularly important for those caring for a senior that has a severe illness. A study led by the Stanford Center on Longevity and Stanford University Psychology Department, which was conducted with assistance from Comfort Keepers and Clear Care, found that for older family caregivers: Caring for a loved one with a mild illness generally leaves them in the same emotional state as their peers with emotional well-being generally greater than that of younger adults. When responsible for a loved one with a severe illness, reported emotional well-being tended to be lower than those of their peers. The cause of a decrease in emotional well-being is attributed to caregivers inability to pursue their social goals and friendships. The purpose of this study was to help identify the unique challenges and stressors that family caregivers face. As a partner in this research study, we reached out to the family members and decision-makers of approximately 2,000 Comfort Keepers clients. These results suggest that older people have higher emotional well-being than younger people but not when they have a relative with a severe illness. Not all older people with ailing relatives have low well-being; rather, it depends on the severity of the relative's ailment. Caring for a senior loved one can be fulfilling and can strengthen bonds within a family. But its important to recognize that being a family caregiver can come with feelings of loss, stress and physical strain. Caregivers risk their own health and wellbeing when they dont account for their own needs or take a break when necessary, and respite care provides a convenient solution for many families. Comfort Keepers Can Help Trusting your loved one with someone else can be difficult, but with Comfort Keepers, you can trust that he or she will be in capable hands. Our specially trained caregivers will stay with your loved one while you take care of yourself, for as much or as little time as you need. And, every client receives a custom care plan that aims to engage them in intellectual, physical and emotional exercises and activities. To learn more about our uplifting in-home and respite services, contact your nearest Comfort Keepers office today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Caregiving for Family and Friends A Public Health Issue. Web. 2019.AARP. Caregiving in the U.S., 2015 Report. Web. 2015.Family Caregiver Alliance. Policy and Advocacy. Web.Alzheimers Association. Alzheimers and Dementia Caregiver Center: Respite Care. Web. 2017 Stanford Center on Longevity. Age and Emotional Well-Being: The Varied Emotional Experience of Family Caregivers by Sarah Raposo, Jessica Barnes, Tamara Sims, Amy Yotopoulos, Lara Carstensen, Mary Bowman, Jacquelyn Kung. Web. 2017. Read more about the study here. https://www.comfortkeepers.com/family-caregiver-study
Comfort Keepers provides in home care and nursing 24/7. We have been established on the Western Slope almost 20 years. Business have been voted Best of the West for the 6 years in a row by GJ Sentinel, Top 100 Women owned businesses in Colorado by Colorado Biz Magazine, received operation excellence award and president club among many other awards and recognitions throughout the years. Our mission is to provide in home care and nursing to our clients so they can remain healthy and happy in their own homes.
With the use of CareLink MobileHelp, Comfort Keepers provides a simple solution to many accidents and medical emergencies. CareLink MobileHelp is a medicalalert system that works nationwide, beyond the home with all the same features as traditional in-home systems. CareLink MobileHelp keeps you connected to a live monitoring center regardless of your location. You can have the freedom to continue participating in the activities that you enjoy in and outside your home, knowing that you are always accompanied by a highly efficient medical alert system.