The New Normal: Long-Term Care for Aging Parents in a Changing World
As life expectancies increase, more adult children are facing the long period of elderly parents needing extensive care. Whether providing that support themselves or coordinating external help, this new normal of prolonged hands-on parent caregiving alters family dynamics and requires resetting expectations.
Gone are the days when an aging parent’s decline was short before passing. Now medical advances prolong life but not always quality of living. The level of assistance needed – physical, medical, emotional, financial – compounds over years rather than months.
Recognize that caregiving duties will likely intensify over time, not remain static. Appreciate small wins like getting through each day with compassion. Let go of perfect standards as their needs and your energy ebb and flow. Patience and adaptability are key.
Explore creative solutions to make this marathon sustainable like adult day programs, rotating family visits, and in-home help for bathing or chores. Seek respite care to recharge. Technology like medical alert systems can provide safety assurances when you can’t be there.
Don’t underestimate the strain on relationships when a parent becomes dependent. Counselling may help navigate resentment over lost freedom and grief over a changing parent. Share your journey to feel less alone.
This new caregiving normal requires being mindful of your own needs too. Maintain friendships, hobbies and personal health. Saying “no” prevents burnout. You’ll be better equipped to help your parent from an energized place of self-care, not depletion.
While long goodbyes are painful, remember that providing loving company through every season of life is a sacred privilege. Savour any shared joyful moments. Though difficult, shepherding your parent’s final chapter with grace and devotion is among life’s greatest honours.
