Taking Care of your Parents

“We must wait until the evening to see how splendid the day had been.” 

Sophocles 

As time goes on, many of us will reverse roles with our parents. With our ageing parents in need of health care assistance, we will find ourselves in the role of caregiver. Fortunately, there are increasing options available today to help our parents grow old gracefully, whether it is in their own home, in your home or in a facility, while helping you to cope.

Many families opt to move an ageing parent into their own home. If you are able to peacefully co-exist with your parent, this may be a good idea. This arrangement frees you from worry about the upkeep of a second home, and you and your children will have valuable time to spend with your loved one.

An option that is likely to become available for healthy seniors in the near future is private long-term care insurance, which can help cover nursing-home costs or the cost of an in-home helper.

You should see it as your responsibility and a privilege to ensure the best life for the remaining time for your parents by providing physical, emotional and financial support – and companionship.