Navigating how to support your ageing parent can be a daunting situation. If your parent is going to continue to live at home, there are considerations that can help you plan.
Think about how support will be funded
If you have decided to organise additional support, one option is looking into whether your parent is eligible for Government funding.
To find out whether your parent is eligible for the Australian Government’s My Aged Care services, they will need to complete a face-to-face assessment. If eligible, My Aged Care will then suggest options. One of these options is Support at Home. Support at Home funding can be managed by the recipient or a family representative through a provider like HomeMade.
If your parent is not eligible for Government funding there are other options including privately paying for support through an online platform like Mable.
Action an in-home safety check
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, seven in 10 older Australians are homeowners. A check of your parent’s home can support their safety:
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Spend some time looking in each room and assessing the potential hazards that may affect your parents.
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Take notice of trip hazards like floor rugs, furniture or boxes and find where more lighting is needed.
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If it is safe to do so, arrange furniture to minimise risk.
Explore transport options
If your parent is finding it hard to drive or travel alone, there are things you can do to find a solution:
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Remind them that you want them to live independently and that you’re here to help.
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Ask them if they feel safe and confident while driving.
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Work with them to create a schedule of their weekly errands which require them to travel.
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Discuss alternatives such as public transport, carpooling with trusted neighbours or engaging with a trusted Independent Support Worker from Mable.
Make time for self-care
When organising support for your parent it can feel like there is a lack of time and energy to look after yourself. Take some time for yourself and consider what situations and decisions may be making you feel uncomfortable. Tools like conversation starters about aged care can help manage the mental load.