Planning For The Future of Our Older Citizens

The World Health Organization reports that the majority of elderly reside in low- or middle-income countries and this number is expected to increase to 80 percent by 2050. The global ageing population increases the need for elder caregiving, but no one family caregiver can do it all. As your older loved one’s condition begins to flux, here are suggestions for helping you move from guarded concern to appropriate action:

• Document changes you notice in your elderly loved one. Are there specific tasks he/she can no longer perform? Is your loved one confused about medication dosages, or does he/she let prescriptions expire or not fill them at all? Accompany your elder to doctor appointments so you can hear the medical information firsthand and speak directly with your loved one’s physician.
• Involve siblings and significant decision-makers. It is important to share the facts of your loved one’s care needs with your siblings and your elder’s medical and legal power of attorney representatives. If relationship tensions of self-interests exist, now is the time to put these differences aside and focus on what is best for your elder.
• Plan for a direct, yet loving conversation with your older loved one. Think about what your family hopes to accomplish through your dialogue with your senior. Appoint someone to lead the conversation. Use open-ended questions. Be sensitive to not overwhelm or ambush your ageing loved one. Listen without judging or doling out advice.
• Stay flexible on next steps. Your family may need continued conversations over time to determine the best care for your elder. The time in-between will allow for gathering additional resources or delegating care responsibilities.

While it can be troubling to see forgetfulness, lapsed hygiene and other signs of ageing affect your older loved one, the good news is that many elderly are actually relieved their families notice and care. In many cases, the older person can remain independent at home with the support of family members and professional in-home caregivers like Right at Home.