Caregiving for Aging Parents: Help for The Sandwich Generation
How to talk with loved ones about medical alert devices
Estimates vary as to how many Americans are currently members of the "Sandwich Generation," individuals simultaneously caring for older adults while raising children. The Pew Research Center believes the total is about 1 out of every 8 Americans, while a recent survey by MetLife found the number to be nearly double that, at 25 percent. Whatever the current figure, both sources agree that the number of people put in this position is on the rise, as the baby boomer population is aging rapidly and will soon introduce a whole new class of senior citizens to the America.
With this in mind, those caring for a loved one need to have a strategy that covers all aspects of the caregiving process. While financial and health strategies are obviously important, one that caregivers should not overlook is personal interaction. As the caregiving process begins, a number of topics must be broached with the parent that may cause some disagreements or strain. Some people may have a sparkling relationship with their parents, yet find themselves battling over decisions that they didn't expect.
To prevent caregiver burnout and deal with this stress, one needs to approach these talks from a levelheaded perspective. It's easy to simply express anger and begin leveling accusations, but that's ultimately not productive.
Explaining medical alert devices
Medical alert systems have proven themselves to be very helpful for caregivers, as they allow monitoring of the senior on a constant basis. The small device essentially functions as a safety net if nobody is around the senior. The senior presses one of these medical alert buttons, and emergency services are quickly summoned. Obviously, these devices can be a lifesaver in the case of a heart attack, fall or stroke, allowing medical help to arrive as quickly as possible.
While there's really no downside to using medical alert devices, seniors can sometimes react negatively to the suggestion. The first step in this instance would be to clear up any kind of confusion about how the medical alert device actually works. There's no "Big Brother" spying on the senior or invading their privacy. Instead, present the device as a useful tool, much like a portable phone. Rather than call 911 in case of an emergency, you're simply pressing a button that will allow help to arrive quickly.
Understanding their point of view
Still, some seniors can have a hard time accepting this concept. Rather than get upset, it's important to understand their concerns. Many may feel like this represents a loss of independence. Instead, explain how medical alert systems actually allow seniors to be independent. By using these devices, constant monitoring from a nurse or other healthcare professional isn't as necessary.
How you present the conversation can go a long way as toward making the senior comfortable. Try to let them know about the talk in advance, so they don't feel surprised or caught off guard. Also avoid an "intervention" setting with multiple people talking at the senior. It's important that they don't feel ambushed or ganged up on, as these emotions can lead to stubbornness and overly defensive behavior. As long as you present the idea as coming from love, caring and empathy for the senior, there should be no problem, and a new medical alarm system can bring peace of mind to seniors and caregivers alike.
Assess your loved one's need a medical alert system: Take our quiz.
Don't put off talking about safety with your parents
Don't wait for your parents to fall or have a health crisis to discuss their safety. One in three people over 65 will have a major fall each year, with that number increasing to one in two by the time a senior reaches 80. Seniors with medical alarms have fewer hospital admissions and shorter stays, meaning a better quality of life.