Caring for Aging Parents While You're on a Holiday Trip

With end of the year vacations, school breaks and closed offices, the holidays are often the perfect time for families to relax and travel.

But those caring for an elderly family member have more to consider besides locking the door or who will feed the cat. From prescription medication monitoring and staying on top of doctors appointments to winter safety assessments, it’s crucial to ensure your loved ones are ready to handle being alone during your vacation time.

Sharon Roth Maguire, a geriatric nurse practitioner and Vice President of Quality and Clinical Operations for BrightStar Care®, put together a list of helpful suggestions to make sure everyone enjoys a safe holiday season.

“Being a caregiver is often challenging and thankless work that can be both emotionally and physically draining,” explains Maguire. “While every caregiver deserves respite and relief during the holiday season, it’s important to make sure your loved ones are in good hands.”

Before leaving for a family vacation, make sure your loved one’s house is fit for the brutal winter months. An assessment includes checking fire alarms and monitoring home heating units. Several companies are equipped to ensure homes are accessible and in tip-top shape for a safe winter.

Complete a Winter Safety Assessment1

Juggling medications, appointments and visiting schedules and can get overwhelming! Utilize online tool, such as CareTogether.com, to organize basic tasks related to your loved one. If you’re planning on leaving town, make sure the online scheduling and organization tool is prepared for your replacement. CareTogether allows everyone involved in the care process to access calendar appointments, health updates, and medicine scheduling for the individual.

Stay Organized2

Hire an Elf3

Staying on top of gift wrapping, getting to and from holiday events or simply grocery shopping can be challenging with poor weather or busy schedules. The BrightStar Care Hire an Elf program is dedicated to taking away some of the holiday stresses and allows individuals to hire a caregiver on an as-needed basis.

http://www.brightstarcare.com/hire-an-elf/

Each BrightStar Care caregiver is trained to provide relief for those with the responsibility of caring for an elderly family member during the busiest time of the year.

While it’s your time to relax, don’t leave your loved one in the dark. Take the time to check-in and make sure everything is going smoothly at home. Ask if your loved one needs anything and make sure they’re staying on top of medications and any upcoming appointments.

Communicate4

Find Quality Care Now Locate a BrightStar Near You!

Find a location in Canada

Find a location in the US