AGING WITH DIGNITY
As the holiday season approaches, Thanksgiving presents a unique chance to reconnect with aging parents who may live far away. Many clients share that during these gatherings, they notice changes in their parents — perhaps dad isn’t eating as much, mom hasn’t been to the doctor in a while, or they’re concerned about mobility in a home with stairs. These moments prompt us to consider how to support our aging loved ones best. Just as we plan for financial security, it’s essential to prepare for medical needs.
For many families, aging parents may be hesitant to seek assistance, including engaging a healthcare advisor. We understand this dynamic well and recommend a gradual approach, building trust and finding common ground. Here are some key steps to consider:
Open communication: Talk openly about their preferences for the future, including healthcare, living arrangements, and end-of-life care. Respect their choices and create a dialogue that makes them feel valued and in control.
Establish a plan: Who should you call in an emergency? Which hospital would be best for potential situations? Do they want to stay in their current home, or would an assisted living community be a better fit? Considering these options now can prevent urgent decisions later. How can you most effectively use care at home?
Share the responsibility: While family members often take on caregiving roles, sometimes it’s necessary to enlist professional help. But care should go beyond basic tasks. An expert coordinator backed by a team can ensure effective communication between caregivers and healthcare providers, assist with medical decisions, and supervise the caregiving process.
Prioritize respite care: Caring for aging loved ones can be physically and emotionally taxing. Scheduling respite care allows caregivers to rest and maintain their health, which is essential to providing quality care over the long term.
Often, having these conversations more than once is advised. It can take time for someone to agree to get help and to create a plan.
A healthcare advisor can help assess a family, create and execute a plan and organize appointments, connect primary care doctors with specialists, and provide insights on behavioral health, among other services. For children of aging parents, emotional support — demonstrated through love, respect, and active listening — is invaluable and helps create a meaningful bond.
Aging with dignity is about supporting our loved one’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. By prioritizing their health, accepting the aging process, and offering compassionate care, and having a plan, we can help them enjoy their golden years with the grace and respect they deserve.