In Theory and Practice: 8 Common Challenges You Will Face When Taking Care of an Ageing Family Member

Humans are living longer, which means they will likely need help at some time in their lives. This care could come in many forms but may involve a family member taking charge of caring for a senior who needs assistance. What are some common challenges a person may face when caring for an ageing family member and how can these challenges be overcome?

Neurological Challenges

Dementia and Alzheimer’s are two diseases that negatively impact a person’s cognitive abilities. Sadly, family members often struggle to cope with the changes seen in their loved ones. However, these same individuals need to look for ways to help the loved one accommodate for memory loss or other cognitive changes. For example, many people find using art therapy can help their loved ones communicate when their speech deteriorates.

Others explore activities like the best memory games for seniors, which can provide mental stimulation and help slow cognitive decline. These games can also offer a sense of enjoyment and accomplishment, making them a valuable part of daily routine.

Home Adaptations

A family might find they need to make changes to the home to accommodate the senior. This can be difficult, especially when space is at a premium. Furthermore, the cost of making the renovations can be challenging. Start with the essential changes first and see how the living arrangements go. If the living arrangements don’t work out for any reason, a great deal of money hasn’t been spent. On the other hand, additional changes can be made if the family does find the living arrangement will work for all.

Health Issues

Certain health issues or medications being taken by the aging family member can lead to aggression or other problems. In situations such as these, the loved one’s doctor needs to be alerted immediately. It may be this person’s condition is deteriorating and additional medications need to be prescribed, or it could simply be a reaction to a medication that is already being taken and a change needs to be made. This can only be determined by having the loved one examined.

Problems such as these cannot be ignored as they could put other family members in danger. The family as a whole needs to be considered in this situation. Although it can be hard to put a loved one in a facility, there are times when this becomes essential. All measures should be tried first if this is not what the family desires, but know it may become inevitable. In such cases, looking into home-like assisted living options can provide a comfortable and supportive environment while still preserving a sense of independence and familiarity for the senior.

Stress

Caring for a loved one can be stressful for the main caregiver. While people don’t like to admit that helping their loved one is difficult at times, this is the case for most people. Make certain the caregiver has time to rest and recharge on a regular basis.

This may involve calling in outside help, but doing so is worth it when the caregiver returns refreshed and better equipped to handle the demands of caregiving. Consider researching home health care agencies in Philadelphia PA or alternate services local to you to help alleviate the burden. Professional services can provide respite care, allowing the primary caregiver to take a necessary break while ensuring that the loved one continues to receive the care they need. Always do as much research as possible for the support available. You may even find that homemaker services Philadelphia is a good start as this can help elderly people maintain their independence for as long as possible.

In addition to professional help, consider involving other family members or friends who can step in periodically. This not only distributes the responsibility but also gives the caregiver some peace of mind, knowing they have a support network.

Defiance

An adult may not wish to take his or her medication or do something else necessary to preserve their health. They fight the caregiver and state they don’t want or need to carry out this task. Try to keep in mind this is often more a matter of asserting their independence rather than not wanting to engage in the task. They feel they are losing control of their life, and this is one way to regain some of that control. Try to work out a solution that is acceptable to both parties while ensuring they do what they need to at this time. Finding the right balance can be difficult, but a doctor or other professional can be of help in navigating these difficult waters.

Finances

Caring for an elderly parent can be costly. The parent might not want to leave his or her home but lack the funds to remain there. Look for a way to ensure the loved one has all that is needed without breaking the bank to achieve this goal. It might involve moving him or her in with a family member while giving them a separate space in the home they can call their own. It could be that family members need to take turns staying with the loved one so they can remain in their own home and afford to do so. What works for one family won’t be appropriate for another, so it’s a matter of finding the solution that makes the most sense for the individual and his or her family.

Being Sandwiched Between Generations

Couples are waiting longer to have children. As a result, many families find they are raising young children while also caring for ageing parents. This can put a squeeze on the couple’s time. They are trying to juggle work, family, outside commitments, medical appointments, and more.

Don’t hesitate to make use of resources in the community when help is needed. This may be calling on church members to assist with obligations or transportation, turning to agencies dedicated to assisting senior citizens, or finding other organisations that can be of help. The couple must make time for themselves also or risk the destruction of their marriage. Keep this in mind and request help when needed.

Fighting Among Family Members

Difficult decisions often need to be made when caring for a loved one. Who will make these decisions? Multiple family members may provide their opinions only to find there is no agreement as to what should be done. At times, outside advice must be obtained to handle these conflicts. It’s hard when everyone feels they know what is best for the loved one, but a decision must be made. Don’t judge each other, but try to come together to find the best solution for the individual. That is the most important thing at this time.

It’s hard caring for an ageing parent. However, this is one task many families must take on. Turn to others in this situation for help. You are not walking this path alone, although it may feel that way. Be requesting assistance, you’ll find you can provide the care with your loved one needs while still keeping your sanity. It is possible.

This is a collaborative post.