Help managing a parent's care: where to start

When a parent comes home from the hospital

 

Mom's home, there's a bag of prescriptions on the kitchen table, and everyone is looking to you to know what happens next. Or perhaps you live far away and can't tell from a phone call how Dad is really doing. When you're suddenly responsible for more, knowing where to ask for help can be half of the problem.

 

We help you sort through the caregiving questions. Start by writing down what's happening today and what worries you most. Keep questions about medications or symptoms for your parent's care team. Alongside those, make a separate note of what you need help managing. For instance, who could keep relatives updated while you concentrate on talking with the hospital?

 

Who can help with what?

 

One sibling may be nearby but hard to reach. Another may have plenty of opinions and little time to help. Rather than trying to settle everything at once, think about a particular task you'd like someone else to take on. It might be making calls or keeping relatives updated.

 

A family emergency plan can help you think ahead about who to contact and who could step in. It can help you prepare in advance, so there's less to worry about during an emergency.

 

Get ready for the next doctor conversation

 

Before an appointment, jot down the questions you want answered. If something sounds unfamiliar, ask the care team to explain it again using "living room language." You can also ask them to clarify what happens next and ask for a phone number to call with questions afterward.

 

We can help you prepare for those conversations. Beth's My Caregiving Journey Plan™ looks at the caregiving responsibilities you're taking on and what you need to keep going. That includes the help around you, your own needs, and a family emergency plan.

 

Talk with Beth or Sarah

 

If you're wondering how to ask Dad what he'd want in an emergency, Sarah's My Peace and Comfort Plan™ offers a place to talk about care choices and recording his wishes. Read about both approaches on our Individuals & Families page, or see all the ways we can help.

 

Book a complimentary 10-minute consultation with Beth or Sarah, or both. Tell us what's happening and what you'd like help with. We'll talk about how our support can help your family.

 

Explore Individuals & Families · Consultation with Beth · Consultation with Dr. Sarah Todd