The care system in the United Kingdom, is hard to navigate and more so for adult children who leave their parents behind and have to go overseas. Living miles away and in different time zones can be taxing for the entire family. And this can turn into a nightmare when your parents’ health deteriorates, a condition which is soon accompanied with a gripping sense of guilt for leaving them behind. While you have the option of asking a friend or relative to step in for a while, this can never be a permanent solution.
Be Prepared
Always expect that professional care and round the clock support will become a necessity at some point of time. There are a number of things that you can do including moving them to a care home.
Medical science has made significant advances and this has prolonged the average life span, in turn increasing the incidence of long-term health issues. Also, the possibility that your parents requiring care is extremely high, if you are unable to provide this on your own, you need to setup a support system, or consider care homes in West Sussex.
Have a Conversation and a Plan
It is important to talk to your parents while they are still fit or lucid. Talking about their future wishes in a chance that they become frail in health or separated is a good place to begin; it will give you enough time to plan things out. There will come a time when they will be filling up a home that is too big for them to live and maintain during their inevitable old age. Options for downsizing include retirement homes and also care homes in West Sussex, these places are more manageable and there is also the advantage round the clock support and aid. You can also consider moving them earlier so that they can forge new friendships and relationships at a time when you have to remain overseas.
Monitor Them
When you are overseas, it is essential that you monitor them and look for clues of health deterioration. As parents they will do their best to cover up any signs of difficulties, so it is up to you to spot any signs of struggle. When you call them, pay attention to what they say and what they choose to leave out. Ask questions to see if they are following their normal activities and hobbies. Make it a point to video conference with them; this will give you visual signs of health like, changes in appearance such as weight loss and also symptoms of physical and mental health issues; the earlier these are identified the better they can be treated.
Plan for Emergencies
It is important to have a plan in case of an emergency. Make sure you have the contact information of medical service providers and physicians, that your parents can reach out to in times of need. It will also help if they carry a medical alert system when they are at home or have someone come over once in a while, especially if one or both of them live alone. You should also give directions on who to call and what needs to be done so that there is no confusion when you are away.
Be updated on Support Services
Government support services play a major role in elderly care, so it is important to keep abreast with all the latest information regarding aid and assistance for older adults. This includes financial aid like pensions, available housing options and other benefits related to senior citizens. Also make sure to take note of any changes in rules or regulations that might affect them adversely or provide them with more opportunities for better quality care at home or outside.
Also, it is extremely common for older people to feel isolated and lonely, so make sure to visit often or have relative and friends call on them frequently, because even if they live in a great care home, family bonds are essential.
Finally, remember that investing in your parent’s health is essential. It will give you peace of mind and assurance that they are taken care of even when you are away. So make sure to factor in the cost of their healthcare and lifestyle while planning their future.