Dealing with aged and at times, immobilized parents can be tough for many, both emotionally as well as physically. At times, we may be in the senior citizen category with health issues, and may still have to take care of our parents. While in India, traditionally it is understood that children have to take care of the parents, the Western style of nursing homes or home care for the immobilized and dependent is now fast catching up in India as well.
The reasons behind this are the changing needs of the society. If the children are working, then it is difficult for them to take off and stay home to take care of the parents. After all, there are many considerations to be taken into account. Hence, at times, one may consider the option of home care for the parent.
Mental health
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If you find that your parent is suffering from mental health issues like amnesia of any sorts, Alzheimer’ disease, old age forgetfulness, etc., then it is better not to leave them alone in a house, when everyone goes out to work. There is the possibility that they may forget to take medicines on time, forget to lock the doors, or may step out someplace and forget how to get back, or leave something burning on the gas stove, etc. These are dangerous situations which should be avoided at any cost. Hence, home care should be considered for your parent, with a constant companion to ensure their safety and well being.
Physical health
The other issue that may prompt the consideration of home care is the physical health of the parents. If they are really old, and cannot move around on their own, and there is no one to take care, in the house, then you may need home care. Here, they may also need constant nursing care, especially if they are unable to move around, even to use the bathroom on their own. Also, the chances of them slipping and falling, etc. can be avoided.
Recovery from injury
At times, the parents who are otherwise healthy and mobile may have some injury like a fracture, or some other form of illness like a paralytic stroke and may be recovering. They need constant care and also at times, accompanied by physiotherapy to recover. In such cases too, home care may be needed, even if for a short period.
Senior care homes
If you have older parents who are immobilized and need constant medical care and you are not in the same town or country, then you may consider the senior care homes that provide 24 * 7 care. These homes are equipped with all medical facilities, like trained nurses and doctors who monitor the patient throughout. They take care of all medical and health issues and ensure that the people are taken good care of.
Convincing parents
Mostly, people find that parents who are mentally agile may not agree easily to a home care situation. However, it should be explained to them clearly that the help ensures that they are well taken care of in your absence. It should be made clear that their safety is of prime importance to you and hence the home care is employed. Children should constantly be in touch with parents and the caregivers in such cases. This will convince the parents that they are not being neglected and the children did not have any other ulterior motives. This is especially so if you are not staying with the parents.
If you are staying in also, it is important to every day spend some time with them to understand how they are and how they are getting along with the engaged help. At times, they may be silently undergoing abuse as well. It is also not a bad idea to install CCTVs in such cases, just to keep an eye.
