Helping Your Aging Parents Stay Healthy And Happy

We can't stop the natural aging process. Only have to look in the mirror and notice our own stiff limbs in the morning to realize that. If you have aging parents, you'll be wanting to watch for changes in their physical and mental well-being.

As your parents age, you'll become much more proactive. You'll want to talk with their doctors. A good relationship here is so beneficial for everyone. Go with them to their appointments. A good doctor will encourage this for many reasons. Often times, our parents become hard of hearing and don't want to mention it. They will miss important medical information.

Some times they may be confused by all that's going on and miss valuable instruction. If you are there, it's like a double check on the health of your parents. You'll know what they are supposed to be following up on and can make sure everything goes as planned.

I must add how important the pharmacist is as well. Nuture these relationships and the road will be smoother.

Remember too, as your parent's health declines, it is going to affect you emotionally. You are watching your once vibrant, young parent face the pitfall of aging. It's hard to watch the Dad who could throw a fast curve ball now be unsteady on his feet. To see the Mom who could multi-task with the best of them, have trouble dressing in the morning. Try to remember what it must feel like to be in their shoes.

Encourage them to stay socially active. Make sure they stay in touch with family and friends. If they no longer drive, please drive them yourself. This wards off depression. For both the parent and the caregiver.

When my Mom would get to spend the day with friends, the bliss carried over for a long time. And give them privacy. Don't hover. Go do something else. This is their time. Get out of their way. How else can they bitch about their kids? Just kidding...

Encourage them to exercise. Especially walking. I know in the winter it can become a nightmare. Find someplace that has an inside track and get them to the facility if you have to. It also helps with the winter doldrums. And speaking of which, consider one of those SAD lights. I have one for myself and believe me, it does work. Winter can be tough and everything we can do to literally make light of it, the better for everyone.

Love and protect your loved ones while you have them. Trust me, you'll miss them when they are no longer with you...

Happy Valentine's Day To All Caregivers And Their Aging Parents

The day of love is here. Valentine's Day is not just for romantic couples. It's for everyone who loves. Their parents, their spouses, their partners, their friends, siblings, pets, you name it!

Hopefully, we feel the love everyday. Not just on February 14. But as caregivers, I hope you look at this day as a respite. If you're feeling stressed from the demands of looking after your elderly parents, take a moment and count your blessings.

I know that sounds trite and cliche but it is true. My Mom and I exchanged cards all the time. My most treasured ones are the ones she handmade for me when she was unable to get out in the stores. I don't have to tell you how much those mean to me, do I? I wish she were here now for this Valentine's Day...

So take the day tomorrow and find the spot in your heart that holds the best memories and cherish them.

Happy Valentine's Day, my friends!

Aids For Independent Living: How To Help Our Seniors' Quality Of Life

With age and mobility problems comes a variety of issues that can cause daily life to become stressful for our aging parents. Thankfully, there are products we can purchase that can make all the difference in their lives.

Whether they are living in their own home, with you or an assisted living facility, daily activities can become so much more tolerable. If not downright happy!

MedExSupply has everything under the sun possible for aids for independent living. Just click on the banner at the right to view their catalog. Click on Personal Care and then General Living Aids. If you're like me, you'll see some items that will make your own life easier!

Looking After Your Elderly Parents: Become Senior Friendly

Last month my workplace offered a course on becoming "Senior Friendly". My co-workers knew I'd appreciate us being given the designation as I love my seniors. Having taken care of my Mom until she passed on at 95, I was eager to see what we'd learn.

We were given walkers and with our legs tied together tried to open a heavy door and get outside. We tried to do the same in a wheelchair. None of this was easy at all!

The most heart-touching exercise was wearing glasses to simulate different forms of vision impairment. Mom suffered with macular degeneration. I tried to be empathetic but I know I failed miserably. When I wore those glasses and really understood for the first time how it was for Mom, tears came to my eyes. Now I finally understood and my heart went out to her all over again.

It's hard for younger people not to lose patience. We live in such a hectic, fast-moving time. When we are behind someone in a wheelchair or using a cane or walker, we might begin sighing and fidgeting. Try to be patient!

Nobody asks for any age-related issues to affect their lives. Everyone wants to be vibrant and mobile. And these same things may be affecting us before we know it. Do we want loved ones or strangers becoming angry with us?

I would give anything to have Mom back with me and do things over. With a lot more understanding. But I can't. The best I can do is "pay it forward". So please be patient. And if a "Senior Friendly" course has seminars in your area, think about attending. Have younger people you know consider attending as well.

Life is better for all of us if we could just slow down a little and feel the love toward all people, no matter what their age.

Caring For Aging Parents: What Will The New Year Bring?

We are starting a new year. None of us have a crystal ball. We start each year with a sense of wonderment and hope. Unfortunately, real life takes hold and memories of warm feelings brought on by the holidays are forgotten.

Worries over aging parents never leave us. As we go about our daily lives, doing our jobs, the thought is always in the back of our minds..."Are Mom and Dad okay?" Whether you live close by or a long way apart, the anxiety can consume us.

For me, my Dad passed away while he was living with Mom in the same house they started their marriage in. Although I constantly checked up on them, Mom was able to take care of most of the load. After he passed, my mother never got over her grief. She depended on me more than ever.

To shorten the story, Mom lived with me for many years until she passed at 95. I don't regret it. Even though there were times I thought I'd lose my mind! (smile)

Which is best? I really don't know. Each of us has to deal with the cards given us. Your aging parents may be still in their own home. Maybe an assisted living facility or nursing home. Close by or miles away. Or living right with you in your own home.

Some of you are part of the sandwich generation. You're taking care of teenagers AND aging parents. That has to be the most difficult!

What will the New Year bring? There will be ups and downs. Perhaps their health will deteriorate. Sadly, this may be their last year on earth. We don't know. But, please look for emotional support wherever it's available. For whatever stage in the process you find yourself.

Take time for yourself. Look after yourself with proper rest and nutrition. These must be your priorities. Losing yourself to look after others will benefit nobody.

Live in the moment. Relish the little things. Take comfort in the smiles, hugs and laughter. When the bad stuff happens, know you are strong and you will conquer whatever is thrown your way.

Life's like that. I wish for you a Happy New Year. Filled with health, love, support, understanding and patience. Bless you all!