Support Options for Adult Children Taking Care of an Elderly Parent

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Naborforce - DFW

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Posted on

Jul 01, 2024

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Texas - Dallas, Collin, SE Denton & Rockwall Counties

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Caring for an aging parent is something a lot of us will face. Right now, over 37 million people across the U.S. are walking this path, pouring their hearts into caring for their parents. If your elderly parent is living with you, or if you're figuring out how to support them from miles away, you know this journey is all about love, dedication, and sometimes, a bit of sacrifice.

Sometimes, you might catch yourself thinking, "I don't want to care for my elderly parents all by myself." It’s okay to be honest about how you’re feeling. We’ve been there, and we're here to help bring joy into the aging process, for both you and your loved one. 

The good news? You don’t have to walk this road alone. This blog is all about getting real with the reasons we might find ourselves stepping into caregiver shoes, and sharing several care options that can lighten your load and brighten your aging parent's day.

How Adult Children Become Caregivers

Let’s look at why adult children often end up being the go-to caregiver for their senior parents.

  1. Sense of Duty and Responsibility: After all the years they spent caring for us, it feels natural to want to return the favor. This feeling, while rooted in love and respect, can leave us feeling obligated to take on the role of caregiver.

  2. Fear of Negative Consequences: Nobody wants to feel like they’re letting their parents down or worrying about getting side-eye from family and friends. This kind of pressure can make us feel stuck in the caregiver role, even when it’s tough.

  3. Parents’ Increasing Dependence: Watching our parents age and become more reliant on us can be a challenging transition. While it can feel overwhelming, the last thing we want is for them to think they’re a burden.

  4. Family Dynamics: Oh, the joys of family life! When it comes to caring for our parents, those complicated relationships and emotional ties can play a significant role in adult children feeling “trapped” caring for elderly parents. 

  5. Being an Only Child or the Local Child: If you’re an only child or the sibling who lives nearest to your aging parent, the sense of responsibility can feel even greater to step up as the family caregiver for your mom, dad, or both.

  6. Lack of Alternative Care Options: Without other family members pitching in or the funds to pay for professional caregivers, you may feel like there’s no choice but to continue caring for your parents all on your own.

Thankfully, there are ways to manage your situation without feeling like you're giving up your life to care for elderly parents. 

Wrapping You in Support: Alternative Care for Your Senior Loved Ones

When you’re standing at a caregiving crossroads, knowing there are different paths you can take is a game-changer. Let’s dive into some options that offer both you and your loved ones a breath of fresh air.



In-home Care

In-home care is all about keeping your parent comfy and happy wherever they live. If you’re caring for elderly parents in your home, they’ll come to you! Services range from skilled medical care by nurses or therapists to non-medical support such as help with daily activities, meal preparation, and companionship. 

Best for: Older adults who need regular assistance or medical care but want to maintain their independence by staying in their familiar home environment.

Nursing Homes

Nursing homes provide older adults with around-the-clock medical care and supervision, designed for older adults with significant health needs that can’t be safely managed at home. These facilities offer a high level of support, including access to healthcare professionals, rehabilitation services, and social activities.

Best for: Older adults with advanced medical needs that require comprehensive care and continuous professional monitoring.

Assisted Living

Assisted living strikes a balance between independence and support. Older adults live in their own private living spaces but have access to help when they need it, along with meals and social activities. Residents can enjoy community activities, social opportunities, and the security of available care.

Best for: Older adults who don’t want the responsibility of maintaining a home but still wish to live independently.

Respite Care

Need a breather? Respite care provides short-term relief for primary caregivers, ranging from a few hours to several weeks. This allows adult children to take time away from their daily caregiving responsibilities to handle personal matters, or simply rest and recharge.

Best for: Family caregivers who need to take a well-deserved break, whether it's for personal time, vacation, or emergencies. 

Adult Daycare

Adult daycare centers are like summercamp for older adults. They offer a safe and engaging environment where your parents can spend their day enjoying various activities, meals, and socializing, with professional oversight and care available as needed. 

Best for: Older adults looking for social interaction and activities during daytime hours, and for caregivers who work or need regular breaks. 

Naborforce

Naborforce connects older adults with community members, known as Nabors (pronounced "Neighbors"), happy to lend a helping hand to older adults in the area. From picking up groceries to sharing a friendly conversation, Nabors offer both practical help and social engagement, bringing joy to older adults wherever they are. 

Best for: Older adults who need a bit of help now and then around the house or around town without the need for a fixed schedule or long-term commitment. 

Remember that you have options the next time you feel “trapped” caring for elderly parents—help is just a call away!

When You Need a Helping Hand, Call Naborforce

At Naborforce, we bridge the gap between full independence and formal senior care by providing on-demand help to older adults. 

Through our simple platform, we make it easy to connect your loved one with vetted individuals right in their community—no strings attached. If you’re looking for a kind, reliable person to help out your parent now and then, sign up to schedule a visit from Naborforce.

Our Nabors are currently offering a helping hand in places like:

  • Atlanta, GA

  • Bethesda, MD

  • Charlotte, NC

  • Charlottesville, VA

  • Dallas, TX

  • Fort Worth, TX

  • Northern Virginia

  • Raleigh, NC

  • Richmond, VA

  • Virginia Beach

Our goal is simple: to make life a little easier and a lot more enjoyable for older adults. Give us a call at 844.MY.NABOR or sign up your senior loved one today.

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Naborforce

Aging in Place 3015 West Moore Street, Richmond, Virginia, 23230

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