This post is sponsored by Depend, Poise, Ensure and Glucerna but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.
I’m reminded so often of that quote from the movie Forrest Gump, “Life is like a box of chocolates, and you never know just what you’re gonna get.” It’s played true so many time in my life, and continues to do so. Life has taken sharp turns numerous times, and each time, I’m left taking care of others.? It’s a role that I’ve learned to embrace, as difficult as it may sometimes be.
I’ll have an announcement to make regarding that very soon, but for the time being, many of you are aware that my father in law lives in our home. Caring for older people in our lives is kind of like raising children, but more challenging at times. If you or someone that you know is in that position or preparing for it, you’ll appreciate this caring for aging parents checklist that I put together.
Caring for aging parents checklist
- Create a health sheet. This should include a list of all of their Doctors and their phone numbers as well as medications that your family member is taking, and what each is used to treat.
- Keep track of appointments. People forget things, especially when they get older so it’s best that someone with a fresh mind keeps track of important things like Doctor appointments.
- Stock up on supplies. Aging parents need different things to help with their day to day life. New clothing that is easy to take on and off might be a good idea, and also baskets for them to easily carry things around in. They will most likely need things like adult diapers, blood sugar management, meal replacements, medicine containers and perhaps other items.
- Get finances in check. You’ll need to go over all of their finances and bills to make a plan for bill paying.
- Start an emergency savings account. You never know when unexpected expenses can come up, so create a savings account just for emergencies that may arise.
- Plan a family meeting. If you have siblings, get together to discuss the future care of your parents, and what role, if any they will each play in that.
Spend quality time with your family
Most importantly, don’t stress the small stuff. When it comes to purchasing supplies, turn to Sam’s Club, where you can buy things in bulk. It will save you time, and keep you from running out of things that your aging family member may need immediately. Sam’s Club offers a variety of products that your loved one may need; like Depend, Poise, Glucerna and Ensure.
I get it. Purchasing these items can be embarrassing, and that’s why I love their discreet shipping options and club pick-up! The Sam’s Club Caregiver program really makes shopping for my father in law’s needs much easier. It’s full of caregiver tips and also has quick links to pharmacy (who you can contact with any questions), health, optical center, hearing center and personal care. Of course, you’ll also have quick access to shop for products that you may need around the house as well as items for their daily care.
