How should you handle caring for your elderly parents? While the thought may be overwhelming, it’s something that you should be wise and thorough about, so consider these tips.

Your parents cared for you before you were even born. They were there to feed you, clothe you, teach you how to walk and talk, as well as put you through school. Aside from providing you with basic necessities, they did everything they can to make sure you grow up happy, healthy, and well.

Now that your parents are aging, you may feel like it’s your turn to give back to all that they have done for you. After all, this is part of our Filipino culture. However, it can be easier said than done, especially in today’s fast-paced and highly competitive world.

Caring for aging parents can have plenty of demands. It may also rob you of your time, money, energy, and many other resources. You may also have to sacrifice a lot in return.

However, by following these tips, you may be able to manage caring for your aging parents.

Tips for Caring for Aging Parents

1. Think about your career or job. Should you quit your job? Weigh your options before you decide to leave your job for good to care for your elderly parent. You should also consider your options if you plan to do the opposite and leave your aging parents with a caregiver.

2. Explore public benefits. Know the benefits your local or national government provides so you can find low-cost, public alternatives that won’t compromise your aging parents in terms of heath, safety, and comfort.

3. Understand the financial costs of keeping your aging parents in their home. Keeping them in their home may require help or caregivers. There may be other costs to consider as well. However, they may also like to “age in place” and be surrounded by memories and familiar people and things. However, they may also feel isolated, so you may also consider having them go to facilities such as Blessed Home so they can have a break and feel empowered while socializing with others, even get to know new friends.

4. Watch out for scams. If you plan to leave your aging parents with a caregiver, either at home or in a facility, make sure that they are safe from caregiver abuse, or even financial abuse, which are common in the industry. Make sure your parents are protected from these threats.

5. Talk to your parents. Make sure that what you want for them is something that they also want for themselves. Ensure that you come to an agreement on how you want your aging parents to spend their days or how you want to help them out. You may also consider talking to them about legal responsibilities. This may be uncomfortable, but necessary.

For help caring for your elderly parents, you may consider facilities such as Blessed Home for short or long term stays.