Many senior citizens in need of long term care rely on their children or grandchildren when it comes to not just setting up the details of the care, but also for recognizing that care is needed in the first place, and then initiating the process. In fact, many of the people reading this article will be reading it on behalf of an elderly loved one as they prepare to help them start care or transition into a different kind of care. This is a wonderful thing that you are doing as often people are better able to see and admit the needs of others than they are themselves. Think about your own life for a moment; is something like the need for in-home care something that you would readily want to go out and find for yourself? If you’re like most people, the answer here is “no.” Having a loved one on your side is a very good way to ensure that your needs are not neglected.
But what about the thousands of elderly folk that do not have children, or who have children that are not part of their lives. How can those individuals take charge of their care more thoroughly? Childless or childfree individuals have exactly the same set of needs as they age as those with a family caregiver assisting them, but without the same safety net of support. And just like those that do have family, there is a strong reluctance to acknowledge the need for care and to honestly evaluate their long term options.
The Baby Boomer generation is more independent than any other generation of elderly people ever. About 20 percent do not have family to help support them as they age, and the pool of available caregivers is shrinking. In 2010, there were about seven caregivers for every person age 80 or above. By 2030, that number is expected to drop to four, and then to three by 2050. Finding a professional caregiver is going to be harder as time goes by.
One of the first things that you should be doing is to rely on the judgment of the network of friends that you have created. Speak with them about your concerns about care and the future, and encourage them to do the same. Even if they aren’t family, they will have an honest appraisal of what they think will help you.
Despite the many benefits that come from not having children–more independence, better use of finances and a stronger ability to accumulate wealth, and fewer restrictions when it comes to work and fun–seniors need to be honest about their need for care. If you are a Baby Boomer and are reading this, it’s important that you take an honest look at your health and your needs and decide whether or not care is right for you. Hopefully, the answer that you arrive at is “not yet.” If you need assistance though, be sure that you reach out to a professional service that can help you go over your needs and desires. Working with a professional in-home care can get you pointed in the right direction to keep that high quality of living that you have grown to expect as continuous as possible.
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