7 ways to care for your ageing parents beyond the doctor's advice

Large families with several generations living under the same roof are still common in small towns and rural areas in India. However, the family structure has changed in metro cities with small nuclear families becoming increasingly common. Youngsters are moving to new cities in search of better opportunities. Many people shift back to their family home after a few years or bring their parents to live with them. A lack of awareness about elderly care and a dearth of trained professionals is a major impediment in India. Here are seven ways to care for your ageing parents beyond the doctor's advice.

• Educate yourself on the concerns of your parents

  Old age can be punishing for the body as well as the mind. Some of the common issues with elderly parents in India is infections and other age-related diseases. The immunity of the body decreases gradually leading to a number of diseases, especially related to the respiratory and digestive systems. The first step towards comprehensive care is to educate yourself with their concerns and act accordingly.

• Listen and empathize with their needs

  One of the biggest concerns for elderly parents is isolation and insecurity. Many lose their spouse in the later stages of life, which aggravates the feeling of loneliness. While it is impossible to replicate the emotional support of a spouse, listening to your parent's concerns and empathizing with them could go a long way in helping them.

• Make use of your community resources (meal deliveries, personal care services)

  The elderly care market is underdeveloped in India. Western countries have a ready supply of trained professionals who understand the physiology of elderly parents. However, with the rise in the number of elderly people in large cities, a number of elderly care services have popped up. While you are away for work, use community services like meal deliveries and personal care services to attend to their needs. Elderly parents have certain special needs such as strict adherence to meal timings. Community services can help in such situations.

• Inform your workplace about your new responsibilities

  Years of working with limited responsibilities provide individuals with extra time to take up additional work or be available for special assignments. Taking care of elderly parents can be an added responsibility and may need an adjustment in the daily or the weekly routine. While you may be available for your colleagues on weekends earlier, it may not be possible with your parents in the house. The best way forward is to inform your workplace about new responsibilities.

• Accept the help and support of others

  Most parents decide to shift cities to live with their children only after retirement. After several years of employment and living in a community they develop a support system in their hometown. The change in cities can be psychologically disruptive for elderly parents. The focus should be to normalise the environment for them as soon as possible. It can only be possible with the help and support of others. Encourage them to visit the neighbourhood park and mingle with other couples of their age. Invite relatives at regular intervals to help them cope with the change.

• Keep your parents' doctors in the loop

  Elderly parents have special needs. Muscular degeneration, memory loss, constipation and respiratory and digestive infections are some of the common health issues with elderly people. It is advisable to consult the family doctor as he/she knows the medical history of your parents. Keep the doctor updated with any changes in diet or medications. In case you consult a new doctor, keep the medical records of your parents ready. Avoid changing doctors at regular intervals.

• Regularly care for yourself to avoid burnout

  The key to your parents' happiness is your wellbeing. It is important to keep yourself physically and mentally healthy. A drastic change in responsibilities at home, along with professional commitments can lead to mental fatigue. Develop a sustainable lifestyle, care for yourself and avoid burnout. While healthy food and exercise can help you lead a balanced life, it is imperative to prepare for unforeseen circumstances. Your parents, children and spouse depend on you and it is your responsibility to protect their future. Invest in a life insurance plan with adequate cover to provide a financial buffer to your family in your absence.

Conclusion

Planning for the future is as important as caring in the present. Your presence is of the utmost value for your parents. A life insurance plan with HDFC Life will ensure that your family leads a financially stable life. The wellbeing of your family shouldn't be entirely dependent on your physical presence.

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ARN: ED/12/19/17049