Every year, an increasing number of seniors are needing 24/7 care, whether it is due to a fall, heart condition or old age. Some have prepared for this, determining in advance who will be their power of attorney and who will care for them at home. Others may have already decided to go to a care home or nursing home when they can no longer care for themselves.
Often, seniors automatically think that their son or daughter will take care of them when they are old. Some children do want to become caregiver’s for their parents. Adult children may feel the need to give back to their parents as repayment for a good upbringing. And there is also that group who knows for certain that they’d rather hire a professional to care for their loved one.
The idea of becoming a caregiver can be daunting. Consider answering these questions before going all in on caregiving.
Do I have the necessary skills?
Remember, at this stage in life your loved one may need help with tasks such as toileting, showering, dressing, feeding, transferring and medication management. Using the right techniques ensures the comfort and safety of both the loved one and the caregiver.
Will this hurt me financially?
Caregivers may be required to stay home fulltime, sacrifice their careers and receive little to no income every month.
Where do I go from here?
After weighing out the pros and cons of caregiving, research what long-term care options are available in the community. There are residential care homes, assisted living communities, nursing homes and private duty home care companies whose staff is trained to care for seniors. Find out what options are affordable for your kupuna. If the final decision entails you staying home and caring for your parent or parents, get as much caregiver training as you can. People can have the best intentions when it comes to caregiving, but it is always best to prepare yourself.
CAREGIVER’S HEART HAWAII
91-1121 Keaunui Dr., Ste. 108, PMB 193, Ewa Beach
808-425-5101 | kuunani@caregivershearthawaii.com
www.caregivershearthawaii.com
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