Balancing Family Life and the Care of Elderly Parents: A Guide for Caregivers

According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, about 65.7 million Americans (31% of all US households) served as family caregivers. Taking care of elderly parents can make it difficult to juggle other responsibilities. While juggling family life and elderly support, you may unintentionally drop the ball.

Before that happens, use these caregiving tips to find balance. These strategies can strengthen familial connections while protecting your mental and physical health. Learn how to provide senior care and take care of yourself in the process. 

Understand Senior Care Needs

Talk to your parents to determine what elderly support they need. These needs may be:

• Physical
• Emotional and mental
• Financial and legal

Here are a few ways you can provide senior care based on a family member's distinct needs.

Physical

Physical health needs often require extra attention. For example, perhaps your parents have heart disease, arthritis, or another chronic condition. They may need:

• Regular check-ups
• A specific diet
• Light exercise

Consider the limitations your parents are facing to determine how you can help. A chronic condition may limit their mobility and comfort. Look for solutions based on the health condition they're facing.

Perhaps your parents' balance and muscle strength have declined. Muscle mass decreases as much as 8% per decade after the age of 30. The rate of decline is even higher after the age of 60.

This condition, sarcopenia, can cause:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Increased risk of falls, fractures, and other injuries

If your parents have sarcopenia, encourage them to exercise. Strength training can help them rebuild muscle at any age. Aerobic activities like cycling and swimming can slow down its progression.

Taking multiple medications for a chronic condition may overwhelm your parents. To keep them on schedule, use:

• A consistent routine
• Digital reminders
• Pill organizers

Emotional and Mental

According to the National Institute on Aging, social isolation and loneliness are related to:

• Cognitive decline
• Depression
• Heart disease
• Weakened immunity
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Anxiety
• Alzheimer's disease

Meanwhile, people who engage in protective activities with others tend to live longer. Socializing can benefit their mood and give them a sense of purpose.

About 28% of older adults in the US (13.8 million people) live alone. Help your parents socialize by encouraging them to participate in events with other seniors. You can explore your local senior living community's events calendar for activities.

Financial and Legal

Taking care of elderly parents may involve helping them with managing their finances or healthcare directives. Consider seeking legal expertise for help with estate planning. 

Communicate Clearly

Before applying the rest of these caregiving tips, sit down with your aging parents. Have an open, honest conversation about their:

• Expectations
• Needs
• Preferences

Try to outline your boundaries and limitations. Understanding each other's concerns can help foster a supportive environment. You'll have an easier time balancing responsibilities if your parents understand your needs.

Your elderly parents' needs may change over time. Schedule regular check-ins to reevaluate their needs and make adjustments.

Establish an Elderly Support Schedule

Make a list of the tasks you need to complete daily. Separate these tasks between senior care, work, and family life. Determine which tasks are priorities.

Balancing your family life and caregiving requires time management. Create a flexible schedule that accommodates your parents' needs and your own.

You don't have to apply these elderly support tips alone. Instead, delegate tasks when possible to better manage your time and avoid burnout.

Look for ways to maximize your time. For example, you can create a list of easy-ready meals to prep and cook in advance.

Unexpected situations can arise. Remain flexible and have contingency plans when possible. For example, you can create a list of emergency contacts and emergency caregivers. 

Build a Support System

Build a family caregiving support system to reduce the risk of burnout. Involve multiple family members and divide up tasks. 

Communicate with your family members if you're feeling stressed or need help. Keeping everyone on the same page can lead to more effective family caregiving. 

Explore community resources and professional help, including:

• Family caregiver support groups
• Senior living communities
• Mental health professionals
• Meal programs

Joining a support group will give you access to additional resources. You can learn from people who have experienced the same situations. Their insight and caregiving tips can help you better manage your time. 

Explore your local senior living community's programs to enrich your elderly parents' lives. For example, they can meet other seniors or participate in events. Some communities offer programs for seniors with specific health needs.

Prioritize Self-Care

Don't neglect taking care of yourself as you care for your elderly parents. Otherwise, you won't be able to give your loved ones your best.

Some caregivers feel trapped by the ongoing demands of caregiving. Don't hesitate to reach out for support from:

• Counselors
• Support groups
• Other family members

To avoid burnout, set limitations. Take time for activities that bring you joy, like exercise or hobbies. Make self-care a part of your daily routine. 

You should take care of yourself by:

• Getting enough sleep
• Exercising
• Eating well
• Making time for fun
• Connecting with friends and family

Practicing self-care will make you a more effective caregiver. Ignoring your needs can lead to caregiver depression and other issues.

Use Senior Care Resources

If you feel stretched thin, consider finding a senior living community that offers a variety of living options. You can find a solution that meets your parents' unique needs. 

Discuss these options with your elderly parents. You can work together to find a solution that works for everyone. Involving them in the decision-making process will help them feel in control of their life. 

Simplify Taking Care of Elderly Parents

Taking care of elderly parents can be stressful if you don't have a plan. Use these caregiving tips to stay organized and efficient. Remember, you don't have to do it all alone. Your loved one may feel more comfortable living in a senior living community, which provide high-quality care and customizable living options.