10 Reasons to Learn Elder Care Basics

About this time last year, we made the decision to move my god-sister to Georgia so I could take care of her.  Also about that time, I had some conversations with my accountant who was looking after her father who lived alone.  Both of us are now taking care of elderly family members.  One of my co-workers spends two weekends a month taking care of her mother in another city.  None of us had a lot of time to think about or plan for it.

This is not the exception, it is the norm.  Strokes, heart attacks, Alzheimer’s and the normal aging process are just a few of the reasons we become caregivers.  They are also some of the reasons we are caught off guard.  Strokes and heart attacks are unexpected.  Alzheimer’s usually sneaks up on us because we either don’t know or ignore the symptoms.

1. Our society is aging at a rapid rate.  More and more of us will be taking care of aging family members.
2. There are more than 54 million family caregivers in the United Stated today.  That number will rise significantly within the next 5-10 years.
3. The government is not prepared to provide assistance for family caregivers.
4. Families should have a course of action prepared to take care of aging family members.
5. Consideration should be given to changes that need to be made to the home.
6. Living wills and legal documents should be prepared and signed before any form of dementia sets in.
7. Begin reading about elder care, aging and forms of dementia to prepare for future issues.
8. Become familiar with drug stores and medical supply stores in your community so you will know where to buy supplies.
9. Start searching out geriatricians and other doctors who specialize in caring for the elderly.
10. Begin talking to friends and assemble a support group that you can count on for respite and emergencies.

None of us want to admit that our parents and relatives are unable to take care of themselves.  We see them as matriarchs and patriarchs that are strong and self sufficient.  We ignore the signs of dementia and dismiss them as normal signs of aging.  Nevertheless, if they live long enough, we will be faced with caregiving.

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