How to Stay Connected to Aging Family Members
July 21, 2023 at 10:39 pm Leave a comment
Last year we celebrated my aunt’s 90th birthday. It was quite a celebration because she’s the last of my mom’s sisters, and no one in our family has lived to 90 years of age.
She’s one of my sheroes, because she always spoke her mind, (still does) and she went for what she wanted. She’s like a parent to me, since both of my parents are deceased.
My dilemma is that Aunt Mae lives 3000 miles away, hates technology, and suffers with dementia. Since she enjoyed cards and letters, I would send a letter or greeting card periodically to let her know I was thinking about her. I’m not sure that she is receiving or opening her mail these days.
I realized that staying connected with ”Auntie” would require more than a biweekly call or occasional family Zoom moment. She forgets that you’ve called her, and I want to stay present in her life until she’s no longer with us.
I researched information on caring for and staying connected to aging parents and other relatives. Below are tips from Commonwisecare.com
7 Tips for Taking Care of an Elderly Parent
Over time, our parents’ health and daily needs change, which can be challenging for both you and them. Whether you’re a full-time family caregiver or supporting your parent from a distance, follow these tips on how to take care of an elderly parent.
- Stay Connected: Regular communication with your parents is essential to staying connected and aware of their needs. Whether it’s a daily phone call, video chat, or weekly visit, staying in touch can help you stay on top of their health and well-being.
- Make Their Home Safe: Aging parents are at a higher risk of falls and other accidents in the home. To ensure their safety, you may need to make some modifications to their living space. This may include installing grab bars, removing tripping hazards, and ensuring adequate lighting.
- Help With Daily Tasks: Your parents may need help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as shopping, cleaning, cooking, and personal care (e.g., bathing). Offering assistance with these tasks can make a big difference in their quality of life.
- Monitor Their Health: Keep an eye on your parents’ health by accompanying them to doctor appointments, keeping track of their medications, and managing any chronic health conditions they may have.
- Keep Them Active: Staying physically active can help your parents maintain their mobility and independence. Encourage them to participate in social activities, exercise programs, or hobbies they enjoy, all of which can improve their overall health.
- Plan for the Future: As your parents age, it’s essential to have a long-term plan in place for their care. Discuss their wishes for future healthcare and end-of-life care, and make sure they have the necessary legal documents, such as a living will and power of attorney.
- Make Time for Self-Care: Taking care of an elderly parent can be emotionally and physically draining. It’s important for you to take time away to engage in self-care activities, such as exercise, reading, or spending time with friends. [1]
Since we know my aunt will answer her phone (most days), my sister and I are using Google Meet to see her (and have her see us) while we are talking with her. Sometimes we connect perfectly, meaning we can hear and see each other. Other times she doesn’t answer, and we know, we will try again later.
Share ways are you staying connected to your aging parents, grandparents, and other relatives?
Want to learn more about how to get along with your family members? Contact me – Ms. Parent Guru to receive information about my inspiring parenting programs for Mothers and Daughters, Mothers and Sons, Fathers and Daughters or Fathers and Sons.
Click Here to become a part of my parenting community.
C. Lynn Williams, #MsParentguru
Parent Coach, Author & Speaker
Social Media Posts
[1] https://www.commonwisecare.com/how-to-find-help-for-elderly-parent/
Entry filed under: Parenting. Tags: elder care, family, parenting, relatives.
Staying Sane While Raising Your Teens 
Trackback this post | Subscribe to the comments via RSS Feed