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Caring for your loved ones as they get older can be stressful and overwhelming, but if you prepare in advance, you can figure out ways to best help them with whatever needs arise.
Below, we explore some of the ways you can assist your loved ones as they start to enter their golden years.
1. Offer To Handle Their Groceries & Medications
If your loved ones struggle to run errands, you can offer to help with things like groceries. If you live nearby, you can certainly stop by the store on their behalf.
However, if shopping in person isn’t convenient or you live far away, you can always help order their groceries online or via an app like Instacart. Ask your loved one for a shopping list and a convenient delivery time and you can set everything up.
Additionally, trips to the pharmacy can also be difficult depending on your loved one’s mobility. But many pharmacies like CVS and Duane Reade offer the option to have your medication delivered right to your door, but some require an app to do so. In this case, speak with your loved ones to get all their information so you can handle their medication deliveries on their behalf if they’d like.
2. Figure Out the Best Way to Keep in Contact
If you live close by, in-person visits are always a great idea.
But if you live out of town or out of state, you’ll need to find another way to stay in touch. If your loved one is technologically savvy, you can always explore texting, Facetime chats, or emails.
Otherwise, you can never go wrong with a phone call. Put it on your calendar to call your loved one once a week so you never forget.
3. Get All Your Vaccines Before Visiting
Unfortunately, many older individuals have weak immune systems and are particularly suspectable to getting sick. Make sure you keep your loved ones safe by staying up to date on all your vaccines, including COVID and the flu.
To be extra careful, consider conducting an at-home COVID rapid test before your visit to ensure that you’re not putting your loved one at risk.
4. Consider Getting Them An Elder Alert
No matter how much you try to visit and be there for your loved one, the reality is you can’t be there for them 24/7.
If your loved one has balance or mobility issues, look into elderly alarms, which will alert someone if they should take a fall, hit their head, or otherwise injure themself.
Being proactive instead of waiting for an emergency could help save your loved one’s life and get them the medical care they need as soon as possible.
However, make sure you always consult them before buying them an alert as not everyone may feel ready to get one.
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