Caring for Aging Parents with a Medical Alert System
Estimates vary as to how many Americans are currently members of the "Sandwich Generation." This group of people includes individuals simultaneously caring for senior parents 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 in this position is on the rise. As the baby boomer population rapidly ages, a whole new class of senior citizens will be introduced to America. What’s more, caring for aging parents can be very difficult.
If you’re caring for aging parents, you’ll need a strategy that covers all aspects of the caregiving process. While financial and health strategies are obviously important, personal interaction should never be overlooked. This means including parents in important conversations and weighing their input when making decisions.
As the caregiving process begins, several 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 Personal Alert Systems
Personal alert systems are an excellent way to begin caring for aging parents. They have proven themselves to be very helpful for caregivers, as they allow monitoring of the senior on a constant basis. The small device functions as a safety net if nobody is around the senior. Medical alert systems also bring extra peace of mind.
While there is no downside to using medical alert devices, seniors can sometimes react negatively to the idea. This reaction usually comes from their not understanding how the system works. If your senior parent is hesitant to try a medical alert system, walk them through the process to reduce their fear.
- Present the device as a useful tool. A medical alert is much like a portable phone. Rather than calling 911 in case of an emergency, you're simply pressing a button that will allow help to arrive quickly.
- Clear up any kind of confusion. Spell out each step of the process. Let them know that there's no "Big Brother" spying on the senior or invading their privacy.
- Be there when they first use it. Having someone else there to practice pushing the button and speaking to the operator during a test call will bring them more peace of mind.
- It's important to understand their concerns. Many seniors feel like a medical alert represents a loss of independence. Explain how medical alert systems actually allow seniors to stay independent longer. We also recommend mentioning how these systems make caring for aging parents easier.
Make Your Parents Feel Comfortable
The way in which you present the conversation can go a long way toward making your loved one comfortable. Let them know about the talk in advance so they don't feel surprised or caught off guard. Whenever possible, 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. Present the idea of a medical alert system as coming from a place of love, not from anxiety. Remember to frame the request in a way that points to your needs as a caregiver.
Talk Now to 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. That number increases to one in two by the time a senior reaches 80 years old. Seniors with medical alarm systems have fewer hospital admissions and shorter stays, leading to a better quality of life. Plus, on your end, medical alert systems will significantly ease the burden of caring for aging parents.
Sit down with your loved one and talk with them about their needs. You deserve peace of mind.