Caregivers in Lansing MI
Learning that your elderly parent has diabetes could lead to a number of emotions, ranging from sadness and anger to grieving and guilt. These feelings can make being a family caregiver for your senior loved one more difficult.
If you are feeling overwhelmed at the thought of caring for your loved one with diabetes, a senior care provider can take your place, offering the same quality care that you or other family members would.
Below are some tips to help you provide the best care for your parent.
- Educate yourself. Do as much research on diabetes as possible. The more you know, the more you will understand how to handle certain situations that occur. Also, by knowing about this illness, you will be able to better care for the elder.
- Do not rush them. After first getting their diagnosis, your loved one may be feeling a number of emotions. Instead of trying to push them towards acceptance, allow them to feel the emotions they are feeling for as long as they would like to.
- Give the elder some independence. You may have the need to help your loved one with every task, including reminding them of upcoming appointments and times. Try to refrain from doing this because it may come off as nagging to the elder and they might begin ignoring your requests. Allow them to do as much as they can on their own before you step in.
- Talk to a dietitian. Since the elder will be making drastic changes to their diet, you may want to think about talking to a dietician. This healthcare professional can help by putting together a customized meal plan.
- Stay in communication with their medical team. Stay in constant communication with your aging parent’s doctor and medical team. By doing so, they will notify you if there are any changes to their health.
- Join a support group. Not only will the elder need support, but so will you. Look for a support group in your area in order to meet other caregivers who understand your situation and may have advice that will help.
Caring for an older adult in general is hard work, but add diabetes to the mix and you are in for a whirlwind of demands and emotions. With these tips you will be able to better care for your elderly loved one.
Source:
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/recently-diagnosed/8-tips-for-caregivers.html
If you or an aging loved one are considering caregivers in Lansing, MI, please contact the caring staff at Seniors Helping Seniors of Lansing. Call today: 517-332-9953.