Preparing For Your Elderly Parents' Homecare in Springfield Missouri

Caring for a senior parent is quite a challenge, but it’s even harder on those who are unprepared. Though the initial conversation is tough, it’s crucial to talk to aging parents about their wishes, financial status, and getting their things in order. Below are several tips for those considering their elderly parents' homecare in Springfield Missouri.

Consider Parents’ Powers of Attorney

First, parents should know who they want to serve as their POA, or power of attorney. They should consider having separate POAs for medical and financial issues. Caregivers should consider each family member’s role and the responsibilities it entails. Here, a meeting with a family attorney can help caregivers understand the situation and draw up the right paperwork.

Complete and Gather Legal Documents

Planning for one’s golden years involves more than choosing a home care service. It involves estate planning as well. With a will in place, parents can avoid future controversy. When creating a will, ask the elderly parent to consider who they want as an executor, and be sure to include an updated living will that describes the client’s preferences on dementia or end-of-life care. 

Understand Parents’ Finances

Caregivers of elderly parents should know which financial resources are available and how they are accessed. While homes obviously hold value, mortgages can diminish it. Annuities, pension funds, and other forms of savings can be tapped to pay for in-home care as well. It’s equally important to consider parents’ debts and how to settle them. By considering parents’ short- and long-term financial needs, adult children can plan for everyone’s future.

Think of Medical Insurance

There’s one thing caregivers should know upfront. Medicare doesn’t pay for in-home or long-term care. To plan for those needs, adult children should ask parents about any potential long-term care policies they may have. Be sure they’re current and confirm the length and extent of coverage. Finally, learn about other coverages such as life insurance, veteran’s benefits, and medical plans. The team at Visiting Angels will work with Springfield families to create care plans that work with clients' needs and budgets.

Allergy and Medication Information

Part of being a caregiver for an elderly parent is keeping a list of current medications, dosages, and ingestion methods, as well as information on drug interactions and allergies. Finally, include special dietary requirements. Having such information will make it easier to answer questions in an emergency, for caregivers and parents. 

Protection of Valuables

All too often, when an ailment like dementia sets in, unethical characters take advantage of elderly people. Consider reviewing precious items and heirlooms with the elderly parent and determine whether they should be safeguarded or distributed according to the parent’s wishes.

Consider Parents’ Lifestyle and Goals

How does the aging parent feel about being dependent on others for care? What is important to them at this stage in life? Do they have dreams and goals they’ve not yet attained? With home care from Visiting Angels in Springfield MO, it’s easier for elderly clients to pursue their goals in comforting, familiar surroundings.

Call Visiting Angels Today

By considering parents’ financial, medical, and personal needs before the time comes, caregiving children can ensure that they’re doing the right thing. With help from Visiting Angels, the caregiver can focus more on their loved ones and less on logistical needs. Call us today for more information or to schedule a consultation with a care coordinator.