We’ve all talked with our parents about the perks of aging – retirement, holding their first grandchild, or taking advantage of the senior discount for bus fare for instance. Staying healthy mentally and physically will let our parents enjoy these benefits, but many can’t do it alone. That’s where we can help.
To help our parents age gracefully, Dr. Brenda Matti-Orozco, Chief of Geriatrics at St. Luke’s and Roosevelt Hospitals, says to practice a little role reversal. “As your parents reach their golden years, it’s your chance to repay them for caring for you for so many years,” she says. Here’s how to help keep them healthy:
1. Teammate
“No matter your age, your parents likely still view you as a child, so it might be difficult or embarrassing for them to receive help with things like errands, cooking or caring for their health,” Dr. Matti-Orozco says. Gain their acceptance by talking about changes before they happen. “Give your parents the opportunity to express themselves, then let them know their care is a team effort.”
As roles change, help your parents refocus on new goals they can achieve for themselves. For example, if you’ll be in charge of grocery shopping and cooking, let your parent plan the meals or develop new recipes.
2. Activities Director
A strong social network that includes family, friends and a health care team can go a long way in maintaining health and independence. Whether it’s a group exercise class or coffee with friends, daily social interactions can prevent depression, dementia and loss of mobility.
“Choose activities with and not for them, and make sure it’s something they can easily and safely manage,” Dr. Matti-Orozco notes.
3. Safety Inspector
Rugs, low lighting, stairs and complicated handles or appliances are health risks that could further frustrate, confuse or injure a person with dementia or limited physical abilities. Learn how to create a safe living environment. Don’t forget to check out the cabinets and refrigerator to make sure their food and supplies are well stocked, and not beyond their expiration date.
4. Organizer
As doctor’s visits become more frequent, you need to stay informed. The Continuum Hospitals of New York use electronic medical records to make it easier for patients and their caregivers to access treatment plans, test results and prescription information.
In addition to staying up to date with computer records, put pen to paper. “Make a list of questions you want to ask at your doctor’s appointment and ask for a medical summary at the end of every visit,” Dr. Matti-Orozco recommends. It will keep you and your parents on top of their health. Here are other tips to keep your parents on track with treatment:
- Establish a single, easy-to-access pharmacy to track all of their medications and prevent dangerous drug interactions.
- Create a list of all medications they can carry with them in case of an emergency.
- Store medications in a weekly pill organizer so they can stay on schedule.
“The long distance caregiver is something that is very common in New York City,” Dr. Matti-Orozco says. Regular phone calls, using Skype (if your parents are Internet-savvy) or talking to your parents’ friends are means to monitor their health. When simple check-ins are not enough, consider finding a care manager through one of New York City’s senior service agencies or exploring senior housing with your parent.
You can also meet with a geriatrician to assess your parents’ physical, emotional and social needs by contacting the Geriatrics Program at St. Luke’s and Roosevelt Hospitals.
For more advice on helping your parents age with ease, find a geriatrician by visiting chpnyc.org or calling 1-855-411-LWNY (5969).
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