I Am a Parent or Family Member: My Parents Are Aging and May Need More Support
As parents get older, it can be difficult to know when normal changes are simply part of aging and when additional support may be helpful. Starting these conversations early can make it easier to understand what your parents want, recognize changes as they happen, and explore options before a decision becomes urgent.
The guides below move from understanding healthy aging and recognizing changing needs into conversations about help, care options, housing, and future planning. They can be followed in order, or you can begin with the issue your family is dealing with right now.
Follow These Guides in Order:
1. Understanding What Healthy Aging Really Means
2.Recognizing When Someone May Need More Help
3.Talking With Someone About Accepting Help
4.Planning for Increasing Care Needs
5.Understanding Help at Home & Community Support Services
6.Understanding In-Home Care & Respite Care
7.Understanding Aging in Place
8.Exploring Independent Living, Assisted Living & Other Housing Options
9.Understanding Senior Living & Long-Term Care Options
10.Talking With Family About Your Wishes & Future Needs
11. Understanding Advance Care Planning & Medical Wishes
12.Understanding Wills, Powers of Attorney & Healthcare Proxies
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Alison offers free online courses across a wide range of practical and professional subjects. If you’re new to caregiving, the free Introduction to Caregiving course offers additional beginner-friendly training on the caregiver’s role, communication, supporting people with disabilities, managing caregiver stress, time management, and organizing care.
