Archive for November, 2009
As a caregiver, such as a son or daughter, it is most important to be able to recognize and acknowledge that you, as well as your parent, are going through a transitionary period. Speak about your feelings and the thought of added responsibility and eventual loss is difficult to integrate. Talking to a spouse, a clergyman, a therapist may be helpful.
It is of the utmost importance for the caregivers, who are charged with the well being of a parent to make sure that they take care of themselves: eat right, exercise, get enough sleep etc.
In order to be able to think clearly and make the right decisions, caregivers must be in a phycial and emotional condition for the proper care to be given.
It is important to assist your parents as they get older. Do you have a health care proxy, a durable power of attorney, a living will that provides for a DNR and/or DNI…have you discussed what their thoughts are when it becomes necessary to make important end of life decisions?
This is written so that logistical decisions can be made when everyone can think clearly and the emotional stress of a critical condition does not impair your judgement.
What are some of the every day concerns that may arise as a parent gets older. Are there convenient shops for food and every day necessities? Are there close friends or neighbors who have access to the house or apartment?
As baby boomers are aging (born betwen 1946 and 1964) so are their parents. It makes sense to be prepared in advance of an emergency situation in order to reduce the stress that often comes at 3 o’clock in the morning.
Martin I. Saposnick