You don’t want to think about your parents getting older. You don’t want to think about them eventually struggling to do things they used to do with ease. Too often, people don’t think about this until it happens. At this point, you have to rush a decision into how to make sure your parents have the assistance they need with activities of daily living.

It’s important to talk about the “what ifs” sooner rather than later. Here are some of the things you and your parents need to discuss.

What Are Their Medical Preferences?

Your parents should have an advanced directive or living will in place. A medical power of attorney isn’t a bad idea either. You do need to know what your parents want if something happens to them. If your dad has a stroke and can’t speak, do you know what he’d want? Would he want to be put on a feeding tube? Do they want to be organ donors? Do they have allergies to penicillin, latex, etc? If they needed an MRI, do they have any metal pins or plates? All of these are things you should know.

How Are Their Finances?

If your parents need home care services, do they have money for it? Discuss how they would pay for elder care services if it becomes necessary. Could they afford a few hours a week out of pocket? Would they have to cut expenses or downsize to a smaller home if it was necessary?

What Insurances Do They Currently Have?

Your parents probably have medical insurance. Do they have long-term care insurance? It’s very rare for medical insurance to pay for home care services. If they don’t know, they should talk to their insurance agent to see what coverage, if any, is available.

Is Their Home Capable of Housing Them if Their Mobility Changes?

If your mom has a stroke and needs a wheelchair, can the home be upgraded to accommodate her? If your dad has a walker, could he safely get around the house? If his bedroom is upstairs and bathrooms and main living areas are downstairs, it may be tricky to for him to get around.

A home care agency can help you look at all the services that can help your mom and dad now. Elder care services are easily adjusted and can be added and removed as your parents’ needs change.

If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Spring Branch, TX, contact the caring staff at Personal Caregiving Services at 832-564-0338. Providing Care in Houston, Bellaire, West University Place, Katy, and Sugar Land and the surrounding areas.