Supporting an Aging Parent with a Chronic Illness

A chronic illness is a persistent, long-lasting condition that requires ongoing medical attention and limits a person’s ability to perform activities of daily living. According to the National Council on Aging, 80% of aging adults have at least one chronic condition. Hence, many families turn to in-home care to look after their aging loved ones.

As a leading provider of home care in Hermitage, Tennessee, we will share effective tips for supporting an aging parent with a chronic illness:

• Build your loved one’s care team.
  The role of a caregiver is not limited to spouses, family members, or close friends. To support your parent’s needs, it is best to build a care team that includes care professionals who can look after your loved one. Plus, professional caregivers can offer respite care when you or other family caregivers need to take a break.
• Make adjustments at home.
  Your aging parent may be used to the way their home is but with a chronic illness, you will need to make some changes to ensure comfort and safety. For seniors with mobility challenges, it helps to install assistive devices like grab bars. Improving the lighting at home can also help seniors with impaired vision.
• Start planning for the future.
  When your aging parent is recently diagnosed with a new illness, it’s important to start planning for the future. Your mom or dad may not need additional help now, but they may need it as they age. As much as possible, involve them in the planning and decision-making process.

AdvanceCare Health Services LLC is a trusted provider of health services. From personal care and companionship to disability services, reach out to us to set an appointment and discuss your loved one’s needs.