Your parents, also known as grandparents and the elderly, are much more current and lively than many of their
predecessors. If you think back to your grandparents or great-grandparents, they most likely looked old and acted old when you were a young child — and they were probably only 50-60 years old at the time! Homecare agencies suggest grandparents are changing as are their roles in the family and their need for personal home care. In fact, due to intergenerational living situations, many families are combining resources and grandparents are parenting grandchildren.
Experts suggest that parents are also playing dual roles and carrying for their grandchildren while their children work, and provide support for their elderly parents. With the many changes in medical health care and seniors living longer healthier lives, parents are becoming what is known as the sandwiched generation. The experts at the homecare agencies like Golden Heart in Dayton, OH explain it very simply — parents reach retirement age and instead of retiring, find themselves caring for the oldest and the youngest in the family; those who are employable keep maintaining the household income.
Although many parents may want to take care of their elderly parents, the professionals at Golden Heart suggest that this often takes a toll on the individual and may pose a health risk both physically and emotionally. The financial savings may be significant. However, even your parent will need respite, and that may include adult children or hired outside assistance that must be accounted for. If your parent can no longer handle caring for their aging mother or father, homecare agencies will be able to assist in seeking care for their elderly parents.
If we want our parents to age gracefully they should not be responsible for reparenting at this stage in life. This is their opportunity to enjoy their hobbies or find the hobby they want to create. If financially able, it’s time to travel and visit the landmarks that they want to see. Life is not about being selfish, but it’s about living it to the fullest and it’s easy to see your parent has earned the right to grab the brass ring.
