One of the toughest things about being an adult is seeing your parents growing older and less capable of doing all the things that they used to be able to manage with ease. The realization that your parents’ age is starting to catch up with them can be a big wake up call. 

When a parent goes from being a fully independent adult to an adult that requires some extra care and attention, it can be hard to know how best to help them. Finding a balance between helping your parents and not being too overbearing is tricky. This is especially true if they still crave their independence. Achieving this delicate balance requires some trial and error, but here are some suggestions that could help:

Help Around the Home

Your elderly parents may begin to struggle with certain tasks around the home, and you may notice that the place isn’t as tidy as it used to be. Chores such as ironing or vacuuming may be too much of a struggle for them to manage. Keep in mind that your parents may be reluctant to let you know that this is the case. Understandably, admitting that you can no longer do things you used to be able to do is frustrating. Gently suggest that you could help them out with specific tasks without being too forceful about it. Be mindful that you shouldn’t take away all of their independence by taking on every job yourself. Instead of doing everything yourself, take your cue from your parents and see if there are some jobs they would still rather complete themselves.

Make Life Easier

Aside from helping out with chores, there are many other ways that you can help to make life easier for your parents and to help increase their quality of life. Personal care is a big concern for many people as they age, so helping to make personal care tasks easier will be a big help. 

If incontinence is a concern for your parents, you can help to make them feel more comfortable by ordering them some Protective Underwear for Adults to ease any worries about getting to the bathroom. Another helpful personal care aid is to have a walk-in bathtub installed, or a shower with a chair for them to sit on while washing. Either of these options will help to make washing a whole lot easier and more comfortable.

Get Out and About

A lack of social interaction and stimulation is bad for the mind and can increase the risk of conditions such as Alzheimers and dementia. Encouraging your parents to get out and about and see people when they feel able to is a great way to keep their minds active. Socializing is a great way to relieve boredom and to help them feel connected to society in general and their local community. Even a short trip out together to grab a coffee can be a great way to spend time together and enjoy some fresh air.