by Heather Bernard

Created on: September 25, 2009   Last Updated: September 26, 2009

What to do about elderly relatives is enough to make anyone's head spin. They are independent and have single handedly raised their families and prize the lives that they have built. They are the indestructible grandparents of your childhood memories. They are generous loving and you want nothing more than for them to be happy. Then the reality sets in. They aren't able to cook anymore and cleaning wears them out. They don't live close enough to family for someone to check in on them regularly. Their memory is not as great as it was even ten years ago and it is getting trying for them. While nursing homes can be a great option for some people let me explore some alternatives for those not willing to go there.

1.) Setting up home health care. This was one of the most ingenious companies ever invented. This allows a companion of sorts to come in and make sure everything is okay. This also provides someone to take them out to the grocery store, to take care of errands, and to take care of small chores. This is one of the most important steps we as a family took with my ninety six year old great grandmother. She is happily still able to remain in the home where she has lived for the past forty years but we are also granted the peace of mind that the little things are being taken care of.

2.) Set up help. This includes house cleaning, meals, and gardening, etc. One of the most important things is your relative needs help addressing their basic needs. It is important to make sure they are living in a safe and orderly environment. This also provides many more people to check up on and give the family peace of mind. Checks and balance system provide vital links of communication. It is important that you make sure that they are getting their needs provided for as sometimes it can be a source of shame for a relative that has always been independent to admit they need help. Extra helps with this as you can ask them if they see any areas that need to be addressed..

3.) Set up support system. Find out what their community offers. Are their groups that get involved with. Is there someone they can call and turn to in an emergency situation who lives close by(I am not just talking about a medical emergency). Although phone contact is important a visit in person every four months or so is also crucial. This gives you a chance to discuss with them in person what they are feeling and gives peace of mind as well.

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