Do you have an elderly parent who you want to ensure is living the happiest, most carefree lifestyle in their golden years? Retirement should be a time when seniors get to relax, enjoy family and friends, and not have the stress and responsibilities they did in the earlier years. But that simply isn’t the case for many, and there may be some things you can do to help. Let’s take a look at some of the steps you can take to help your elderly parent live a more carefree lifestyle.
Schedule In-Home Help Where Possible
Where it may have been that your parent had no problem keeping up with the house cleaning and laundry, as they age, it can be more difficult. This is especially true if they live in a larger house or one with multiple floors that requires them to be going up and down the stairs many times a day.
Hiring a house cleaner and/or someone that can do laundry can help immensely. Even if you only schedule help once a week or once every two weeks, it will still be incredibly beneficial.
Introduce Them to a Meal Delivery Service
Another handy option is meal delivery services, which aren’t in short supply right now. You can arrange to have meals delivered a couple of times a week. If they have specific dietary needs, look for a service that can accommodate them.
You have a couple of options here wherein you can pick a meal delivery service that requires a few simple preparations and then cooking steps by your parent, or pick a service that delivers meals that are prepared already and just need heating.
Help Them with Errands Out of the House
As for those errands they need to do that are out of the house, such as shopping, doctor appointments, and other such things, any help you can offer will likely be appreciated. That means driving them to and from appointments or even picking up items for them so they don’t have to do it.
Could They Benefit from an Assisted Living Facility?
As your parent ages, their physical and mental health needs will start to change. It’s important to watch for any signs that may prompt you to discuss an assisted living facility with them. These types of facilities are ideal for seniors who are still fairly independent but require some daily assistance with basic responsibilities and needs.
There is a huge difference when looking at nursing home vs. assisted living, as a nursing home is meant for those with more advanced and serious health issues that require constant care. An assisted living facility allows your parent to still go about daily activities but in a safer and more social atmosphere.
Retirement Should Be an Enjoyable Time of Life
The retirement years shouldn’t be spent worrying, stressing out, and feeling overwhelmed; rather, it is a chance to kick back and relax. This is important to keep in mind as you look for ways to help your elderly parent and ensure their lifestyle is carefree and enjoyable.