Finding the Right Care Plan For Your Dad

How is your dad’s health? Almost 86% of adults aged 65 or older have at least one chronic health condition. More than half (56%) have at least two chronic conditions, and 23.1% have three or more.

When your dad is diagnosed with some of the most common chronic conditions like arthritis, asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, COPD, or diabetes, what can you do to help him? What goes into a comprehensive daily care plan?

Can He Take Care of His Own Grooming and Hygiene Routines?

Is your dad able to shower on his own? Does he find it difficult to step over the side of the bathtub if he doesn’t have a walk-in shower?

Does he trim his toenails without difficulty? Or, is it hard for him to bend over and reach his toes while maintaining his balance? Is he brushing and flossing his teeth regularly? Consider the things that your dad is having a harder time doing. Arthritis may make it hard to hold a toothbrush, floss, razor, or comb.

How Often Do People Visit Him?

Is your dad often alone for days or weeks before anyone can stop in and see him? If he’s lonely or isolated, it will impact his mental and physical health. You might live too far away to visit more than a few times a year, but he can have caregivers stopping by and offering companionship throughout the week.

With companion care services, your dad has a caregiver to join him when he runs errands, accompany him on walks, and challenge him to his favorite board game. He’ll have caregivers to watch movies with, talk to during a meal, or join for a day out at a museum or theater show.

What Are His Dietary Needs?

Some older adults lean towards frozen pizzas, microwavable meals, or canned soup as they’re easy to prepare. They’re not always the most nutritious option. A home-cooked meal is better, but it’s beyond your dad’s abilities.

Hire caregivers to plan and prepare meals for your dad. He’ll have plenty of opportunities to give input, and you can share details about whether he needs low-sodium or high-fiber options. His caregiver can help your dad plan a shopping list and take him shopping if desired.

Talk to His Doctor if Possible

If you’re authorized to talk to your dad’s doctor or attend his appointment, take the time to do so. You can ask questions and learn more about your dad’s care needs going forward. He might need to start taking medications that can cause dizziness or drowsiness, and that means no driving.

Your dad may have had a stroke or heart attack, which also means he cannot drive. If he has dementia or cancer makes him weak, he’ll also be unable to drive. He needs to have someone available to drive him to his appointments, area stores, and social events, so transportation services are essential.

Senior home care is a must-have service if you still work, don’t have the time to help your dad all day and night, or have your own health issues. Learn more about the services and prices by talking to a senior home care advisor.

Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/health_policy/adult_chronic_conditions.htm