How to Prepare to Work with Visiting Angels Mid Maine’s Home Care Professionals
At some point in your life, your role will go from being cared for by your parents to that of caring for them. There are many reasons for this role reversal, it could be the result of age or a more sudden need such as resulting from an injury or serious illness. No matter the reason, it beckons a new era in your life.
How to Prepare Yourself and Your Loved One for a Home Care Professional from Visiting Angels Mid Maine
Very few are ready to take on the role of caregiver to an elderly parent. For many, this "role reversal" comes as a bit of a shock. It is your turn to be there as they start to struggle with things like mobility, memory, even personal hygiene. At the same, it is your job to help them maintain at least some sense of dignity at a time when they are likely to be feeling vulnerable.
Keep in mind that it will most likely not be your parents who tell you they need help, instead it will be something you notice over a period. Some questions you might be asking yourself that can lead to the decision to hire home care professionals include:
- Are they losing weight?
- Are they still maintaining their personal hygiene?
- Is the outside or inside of their home starting to show signs of neglect?
- Is their mail piling up on the table or counter and bills going left unpaid?
- Are there noticeable bruises that could be the result of a fall?
- Do they no longer seem to enjoy their pastimes, hobbies, favorite TV shows?
At this point, you might need to ask if you are up to the task or if you need the help of the right home care professionals.
Getting Started
The best way to get started is to create a day-to-day diary of things that seem out of the ordinary, behaviors that have changed. Keep up to date on their medical history and any medications they are taking. Then contact Visiting Angels Mid Maine to arrange for your free consultation. It is up to you if you do this by yourself or with your parents, but it might be a good idea for you to get the facts first.
Beyond your parents' needs, you may also want to confirm with Visiting Angels Mid Maine:
- Who to contact if you have questions
- What you expect in terms of reporting your parents' overall progress
- What part you can play in their care program
- Who will be the primary family caregiver
When you have the answers to your questions it will be a good time to approach your parents about the need for a home care professional. This is not a conversation most parents are going to want to have with you, but a gentle, caring approach may make it a little easier for everyone.
Continuing to Live Independently
Research has shown that continuing to live independently with the help of home care professionals, can lead to a much longer, happier, and healthier life. At Visiting Angels Mid Maine, we understand the importance of putting together a "senior care" team that includes you and one or more of our caregivers. To arrange for your free in-home consultation or learn more about the many services our home care professionals offer, contact Visiting Angels Mid Maine today!