How to care for an elderly or sick parent

1
Your parent, who took good care of you is now in need of you to take care of them. You love your parent but struggle with other responsibilities as your kids, house, job, etc. Having a plan can be helpful.
2
First, decide what kind of care is needed. 24 hour care, assisted living, light assistance such as housekeeping and shopping?
3
Next, can you afford to hire assistance or afford placement? There are many agencies that offer care at all levels from in home 24 hour care to light duty (errands, cleaning, etc).
4
If you can afford assistance, then look up resources through newspaper, yellow pages and internet. Note: craigslist often has listings of licensed (and screened) agencies. You can also post your own ad for free.
5
If you cannot afford assistance, then decision has to be made if you can manage yourself or if assistance can be split with other family members.For example, Aunt X will take shopping every week and daughter K will take care of housekeeping.
6
If parent needs 24 hour care, it can still be divided by other family. Example, daughter y has parent during week and son h has on weekends or divide by month. Don't forget to include other family members (children, siblings, cousins, parents friends) all may be able to assist.
7
If parent needs 24 hour care, there are respite agencies that can help 1 or 2 days a week to help give a break, as well.
8
If you become a caregiver for your parent, seek out a support group through your local hospital or church. They are a great resource to alleviate your own stress and to obtain new resources.

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