Caring for Aging Parents: A Comprehensive Checklist

As our parents age, their needs become increasingly multifaceted, requiring us to be proactive and prepared to provide the best possible care. The journey of caring for aging parents is complex, encompassing a variety of aspects including physical safety, legal matters, and overall well-being.

Being prepared with a comprehensive checklist can help ensure their needs are met effectively and they’re able to age in place comfortably and safely. Let’s look at what those needs are and how they can be addressed effectively, from physical needs to legal matters and home care.

Physical needs and support

Caring for aging parents involves addressing their physical needs and ensuring their home environment supports their well-being. Here’s a detailed checklist to guide you through this part of the process:

1. Assess physical limitations
   • Document specific limitations – Note any mobility issues, vision or hearing impairments, or other health conditions that may affect their ability to move around or manage daily tasks independently.

2. Evaluate the home environment
   • Identify safety hazards – Look for potential hazards such as loose rugs, slippery floors, or poorly lit areas. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and making sure adequate lighting is available can prevent accidents.
   • Accessible home modifications – Consider modifications like ramps for wheelchairs, widened doorways, or stairlifts to enhance accessibility. Assess whether these modifications are necessary based on the elderly person’s limitations.

3. Look for Fall Risks
   • Falls represent one of the biggest risks – Each year there are about 1 million fall-related hospitalizations among older adults, according to the CDC.  While these risks should be included in evaluation of the home environment, the risk is significant enough to highlight very specifically.
   • Major flags to look for – in addition to the hazards above, include secure and steady handrails for all stairs, ensuring the house is tidy and free of trip hazards, keeping frequently used items in easy reach, arrange furniture for clear paths, and making sure chairs and sofas are the appropriate height to prevent strain when sitting and standing.
4. Implement monitoring technology
   • Install safety devices – Use monitoring technology such as fall detectors, emergency alert systems, and cameras (with consent) to keep track of their well-being and provide immediate assistance if needed.

5. Manage medications
   • Organize and track medications – Ensure medications are stored properly and that a system is in place for tracking dosages and refill dates. A medication organizer or automated dispenser can be helpful.

6. Emergency information
   • Display emergency contacts – Make sure emergency numbers, including those for healthcare providers, family members, and emergency services, are easily visible and accessible.

7. Plan for daily support
   • Consider in-home assistance – Evaluate if there is a need for professional caregivers or home health aides to assist with daily activities such as bathing, cooking, and cleaning.

Legal checklist for aging parents

Handling legal matters is crucial to ensure that your aging parents’ wishes are respected and their affairs are managed appropriately. Here’s a checklist to guide you through essential legal documents and considerations:

1. Gather essential documents:
   • Birth certificate: Ensure a copy is readily available.
   • Citizenship papers: Have documentation of citizenship status if applicable.
   • Death certificates: Obtain certificates for deceased spouses or parents.
   • Deeds to cemetery plots: Ensure these documents are in order and accessible.
2. Review insurance and financial documents
   • Insurance policies: Gather all relevant insurance documents including health, life, and property insurance.
   • Pension Benefits: Ensure information on pension benefits is up-to-date and accessible.
3. Establish legal authority:
   • Power of attorney: Set up a power of attorney to handle financial and legal matters if the individual becomes unable to do so themselves.
   • Advanced care directive: This document outlines healthcare preferences and decisions in case the individual is unable to communicate their wishes.
4. Update legal documents:
   • Will: Ensure that the will is current and reflects the individual’s wishes regarding the distribution of their estate.
   • Marriage certificate: Keep a copy if relevant to any legal or financial matters.
5. Financial and account management:
   • Authorized user on accounts: Consider becoming an authorized user on their financial accounts to manage or access funds if necessary.
6. Consult with an attorney:
   • Seek professional advice: It is highly recommended to meet with an attorney specializing in elder law to ensure all legal matters are properly addressed and to get advice on managing and planning for future needs.

The CAPABLE Program at UDS

United Disabilities Services (UDS) offers the CAPABLE program, a valuable resource designed to support aging adults in managing their daily lives and staying in their homes safely. CAPABLE provides a holistic approach that includes home modifications, nursing support, and occupational therapy to enhance the quality of life for aging parents and the elderly. As you evaluate your parents’ living situation, and note specific areas of concern, UDS may be able to help and enable your parents to age in place.  See our CAPABLE services for more information and to get started.

Looking ahead

Caring for aging parents involves addressing their physical, emotional, and legal needs. By using the comprehensive checklists provided, caregivers can ensure they are well-prepared to handle the various aspects of aging in place. Evaluating physical needs, making necessary home modifications, managing legal documents, and utilizing resources like the CAPABLE program can significantly enhance the quality of life for aging parents.

UDS services a wide region in eastern and southeastern Pennsylvania, encompassing more than two dozen counties. The organization is here to assist with these needs, offering support and guidance to ensure a safe and fulfilling experience for both caregivers and their loved ones. For further assistance and resources, reach out to UDS and explore how we can help navigate this journey for your loved ones.