My Parents Aren’t Doing Well: What Can I Do?

Watching your parents or loved ones age can be a source of concern, especially when their health or independence starts to decline. Whether due to a sudden health issue or gradual aging, it’s essential to know how to support them and what options are available. This guide explores various ways to assist your parents, including home support services, financial assistance, and community resources.

1. Assess the Situation and Identify Their Needs

Before making decisions, it’s crucial to evaluate your parents' current situation:

• Health status: Do they have chronic illnesses or recent health issues?
• Independence: Can they perform daily activities like cooking, bathing, or shopping?
• Environment: Is their home suitable for their current needs?

Helpful Resource: Use the evaluation tools provided by The Caregiver Association to identify their specific needs.

2. Adapt Their Home for Safety

If your parents want to remain at home, adapting their living space may be necessary to ensure safety and comfort:

• Install grab bars in the bathroom.
• Replace slippery rugs with non-slip surfaces.
• Add additional lighting to reduce the risk of falls.

Helpful Resource: Learn about available subsidies for home adaptations on the Société d’habitation du Québec.

3. Explore Home Support Services

Home support services can provide practical and personalized care for your parents. These services include:

• Household assistance: Cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation.
• Personal care: Help with bathing, dressing, or mobility.
• Nursing care: Medication management, wound care, or injections.
• Social support: Activities to combat isolation.

Helpful Resource: Discover personalized home care services with Bien Chez Soi.

4. Consider Community Resources

Local organizations can offer valuable, often affordable services to help your parents maintain their quality of life:

• Meal delivery: Programs like Meals on Wheels provide nutritious meals delivered to their home.
• Community centers: Social and physical activities for seniors.
• Adapted transport services: Rides for medical appointments or errands.

Helpful Resource: Find local organizations through the Quebec Seniors Resource Directory.

5. Consider Long-Term Care Options

If your parents require constant monitoring or complex care, senior residences or specialized centers may be the best option. These include:

• Private residences: Offering a secure environment with optional services.
• Long-term care centers (CHSLDs): For individuals needing intensive care.
• Intermediate resources: A middle ground between home and specialized care.

Helpful Resource: Compare options and costs on Bonjour Résidences.

6. Take Advantage of Available Financial Assistance

Several programs can help reduce the costs of services and care:

• Tax Credit for Home-Support Services for Seniors: Covers up to 38% of eligible home care costs.
• Financial Assistance Program for Domestic Help Services (PEFSAD): Discounts for domestic help services.
• Tax Credit for Caregivers: Financial assistance for family caregivers.

Helpful Resource: Learn more on the Revenu Québec website.

7. Take Care of Yourself as a Caregiver

Supporting your parents can be physically and emotionally exhausting. It’s important to take breaks to preserve your well-being:

• Use respite care services to take some time for yourself.
• Join caregiver support groups.
• Seek professional help if you feel stressed or overwhelmed.

Conclusion

When your parents aren’t doing well, there are many solutions to help them maintain their quality of life. From home adaptations to home care services and financial assistance, it’s possible to find tailored solutions for every situation. Take the time to assess their needs and leverage available resources for effective support.

Looking for personalized solutions for your parents? Contact Bien Chez Soi to learn how our services can help them stay at home comfortably and safely.