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As our parents age, it’s natural to worry about their well-being and how we can best support them. Caring for elderly parents can be a challenging task, especially for those who live far away or have busy lives. However, with a bit of planning and the right resources, it’s possible to provide your loved ones with the care and support they need, while also ensuring that you maintain your personal health and well-being.

In this article, we will explore some tips for caring for elderly parents and provide some local tips for Nebraska residents.

Understand their needs

The first step in caring for your elderly parents is to understand their needs. This can be a difficult conversation to have, but it’s important to discuss their current living situation, their medical needs, and their financial situation. It’s important to know if they have any chronic illnesses, require medication, or have mobility issues. Understanding their needs will help you determine the level of care they require.

Get organized

Caring for an elderly parent can be overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to juggle your own life at the same time. One way to make things easier is to get organized. Create a list of your parent’s doctors, medications, and any other important information. Keep track of their appointments and make sure they’re attending them. Consider setting up a schedule for their care that includes daily tasks like meals, medication, and exercise.

Consider in-home care

If your elderly parent is still living at home, in-home care can be a good option. This type of care provides assistance with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and preparing meals. In-home care can also provide companionship which can be important for their mental health.

At Prairie Hill Homecare we provide in-home care services, including both medical and non-medical assistance for the elderly. We offer a range of services, including personal care, homemaking, respite care, companionship and more. Our trained caregivers can assist with daily activities such as grooming, medication reminders, and meal preparation.

Stay connected

As your parent’s caregiver, it’s important to stay connected with them. This can be challenging if you don’t live close by, but there are still ways to stay in touch. Consider setting up regular phone or video calls, sending letters or care packages, or even hiring a local caregiver to provide companionship and assistance.

In La Vista, there are several local organizations that can help you in your journey as you care for an elderly parent. The La Vista Senior Center offers a variety of social activities and events for seniors. The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging provides support for caregivers and is a great resource for finding out various programs that are available for your senior loved one.

Take care of yourself

Caring for an elderly parent can be emotionally and physically draining. It’s important to take care of yourself during this time. Make time for yourself to recharge and do things you enjoy. Consider joining a support group for caregivers, either in-person or online. Remember that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.

Consider respite care which is a service specifically designed to relieve family members who are caring for an elderly or disabled loved one. 

Understand the legal and financial implications

Caring for an elderly parent can also have legal and financial implications. It’s important to understand your parent’s financial situation, including their income, expenses, and assets. You should also be familiar with their legal documents, such as their will and power of attorney.

In La Vista, there are several organizations that can help with legal and financial issues. The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging provides resources and support for caregivers in these areas, and can connect you with legal and financial professionals if necessary.

Local Tips for Caring for Elderly Parents in Nebraska

La Vista

If you are caring for elderly parents in La Vista, there are several local resources that can help. The La Vista Senior Center offers a variety of programs and activities for seniors, including exercise classes, card games, and social events. The center also provides transportation services for seniors who may have difficulty getting around. Additionally, the La Vista Public Library offers a variety of resources for seniors, including large-print books, audiobooks, and computer access.

Omaha

Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska and has a variety of resources for seniors and their caregivers. The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging provides a range of services for seniors, including home-delivered meals, transportation, and caregiver support. The city also has several senior centers, including the Florence Senior Center and the Millard Senior Center, which offer a variety of programs and activities for seniors.

Lincoln 

Lincoln has several resources for seniors and their caregivers. The Aging Partners program provides a range of services for seniors, including home-delivered meals, transportation, and caregiver support. The city also has several senior centers, including the F Street Community Center and the Northeast Senior Center, which offer a variety of programs and activities for seniors.

Bellevue 

The Bellevue Senior Center offers a variety of programs and activities for seniors, including exercise classes, card games, and social events. The center also provides transportation services for seniors who may have difficulty getting around. Additionally, the Bellevue Public Library offers a variety of resources for seniors, including large-print books, audiobooks, and computer access.

All Areas in Nebraska

The Nebraska State Unit on Aging is a valuable resource for seniors and their caregivers, providing a range of programs and services to support the elderly population in the state. From nutrition programs to caregiver support services, the SUA works in partnership with local Area Agencies on Aging to ensure that seniors have access to the resources they need to maintain their independence and quality of life. Be sure to explore the resources offered by the Nebraska State Unit on Aging and local Area Agencies on Aging to find the support you need as you care for your elderly loved ones.

Homecare Services and How they Can Help You

While caring for elderly parents can be a rewarding experience, it can also be challenging, especially if you have other responsibilities, such as work or children. Home care services can help alleviate some of the pressure and ensure that your loved ones receive the care and support they need. With home care, seniors can receive the care and support they need in a familiar environment, which can help reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. Home care services can also help seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life as they age.

At Prairie Hill Home Care, we offer a variety of home care services to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life. Our caregivers are trained and experienced in providing compassionate care for seniors, including those with chronic health conditions. Some of the benefits of home care services include:

Personalized care 

Our caregivers work with each client to develop a personalized care plan that meets their unique needs and preferences.

Companionship

Our caregivers provide companionship and socialization, which can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Medication management 

Our caregivers can help ensure that your loved ones are taking their medications as prescribed, which can help prevent complications and improve their overall health.

Assistance with activities of daily living

Our caregivers can assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing.

Meal preparation

Our caregivers can help prepare nutritious meals and snacks, which can help improve your loved one’s health and well-being.

Transportation 

Our caregivers can provide transportation to appointments, social events, and other activities, which can help your loved ones maintain their independence and quality of life.

Conclusion

Caring for elderly parents can be a challenging task, but with the right resources and support, it’s possible to provide your loved ones with the care and support they need while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In Nebraska, there are many resources available to help seniors and their caregivers, including local senior centers, support groups, and home care services.

If you’re caring for elderly parents in any city in Nebraska including La Vista, Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, or the surrounding areas, consider Prairie Hill Home Care. Our experienced caregivers are dedicated to providing personalized care that meets the unique needs and preferences of each client. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you and your family. Let us help you provide the best possible care for your loved ones.