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Ask the Expert
Q: How can I
know exactly what my mom or dad need?
A: When a parent, spouse or loved one
becomes ill, suddenly the role of
parent-child can change 180 degrees. Now you
must become the "nursemaid" to the loving
people who cared for you as a child. Often
this natural step in life can be traumatic
to all involved. If the parent is still
coherent, ask them directly what they want.
Map out a plan of care in consultation with
their doctor and immediate family members.
Care of elderly family members is always an
important decision which benefits from the
thoughts of all direct family members and
even close friends. What may seem the
logical decision to you, may not actually be
the best decision for your parent. For
example, having them move to be near you may
be more convenient for you, but taking them
away from their home, friends, and locale,
may actually be detrimental. Ultimately,
loving children must make hard decisions and
even sacrifices for the benefit of the
parent in need. First be sure all members of
the family understand the medical problem,
its prognosis and possible outcomes. Assess
with both parents what they most need and
most want. Honor their wishes and proceed to
the best course of action. The whole family
needs to be kept up-to-date on the whys and
whats of decisions made. Country Home Care
will want to know the names and addresses of
all immediate family members so we can help
keep them informed.
Q: Why
should I consider a professional caregiver?
A: Children of elderly ill parents may feel
that they are best suited to care for the
ailing parent. Although a child can give the
best moral support and love, most do not
have the medical background to fulfill the
real work involved. And many of us not only
have ill parents but children and jobs to
handle as well. In searching out quality
caregivers you are augmenting your love for
them with professional care.
7 Alerts to Call Country Home Care
Q: How do I
handle the money and finances?
A: Work with the parent and spouse and
immediate family members to resolve this
issue. Money and who controls it could
become a source of family conflict. A power
of attorney, and consultation with a lawyer
about a Living Will or Trust may be
necessary. Good communication with the
family CPA or Attorney can facilitate the
appropriate documentation for tax purposes.
At Country Home Care we work with families
to set up accounts at the local pharmacy,
market, etc. to purchase necessary goods and
medicines, to maintain accurate
documentation for expenses. Country Home
Care offers several avenues for payment
including for your convenience accepting
Visa and MasterCard.
If you have additional questions or require
assistance please contact us at (831)
333-2070.
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