Things to consider when an elderly parent can no longer live alone:

If you have decided to provide care for your parent in either your home or their home the first thing to consider is the cost. If your parent has dementia or parkinson's the time will come when he or she will need constant supervision. If you are working how will the caregiver be paid while you are gone? There are home health agencies, or you can advertise yourself, interview qualified candidates, check references and hire someone yourself. If you go this route, the caregiver may need a tax form called a 1099. It is a good idea to meet with an elder law attorney and discuss these issues and set up Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy. Depending on the amount of income Medicaid has programs for homecare and also Aid and Attendance if the person or spouse was a veteran.

Another issue which affects many caregivers, is disagreement among siblings as to how Mom or Dad should be cared for. Usually the need for caregiving catches the family by surprise. Most people don't plan on getting dementia, parkinson's, strokes, or any other debilitating condition. The family has to stop and readjust their lives to accommodate this new situation. Attending a support group or informational program sponsored by The Alzheimer's Association, Council on Aging or other local educational opportunity is very helpful.

Getting a doctor who is on your side and is supportive of your choice is another way to ease the burdon of care. The patient's medications need to be monitored and if problems arise you can call with your concerns. Prepare the house for safety. Install grab bars in the bathroom, remove clutter that can cause a fall, have proper lighting, keep things which are used often within easy reach, not in a high or low cupboard. Have chairs which are comfortable and supportive. The visiting nurse association or other home health agency can come to the home and do a safety check and provide useful information.home care montreal