Darlene’s Reviews > The Complete Guide For Family Caregivers > Status Update

“With support from friends and family, many seniors prefer to stay in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. When health abilities decline, they often require additional support services delivered by community-based agencies. Some of these services include meals-on-wheels, homemaking, transportation, friendly visiting, help with errands, and telephone assurance.”

“Among seniors who live in residential care facilities, the rate of depression has been shown to be as high as 44%. This is especially relevant since seniors who live in these facilities are estimated to have much higher rates of loneliness than seniors who continue living in their communities.”

“While many need to lean on family, volunteers or health care professionals to help them cope, they would prefer this to be a support rather than a substitute for self care.”

“Family members and others who recognize the impact of their attitudes and behaviours and behave in truly supportive manners contribute positively to the quality of life of elderly couples.”

“With ongoing changes in their physical and mental health, you/and or your siblings may need to accept more responsibility. Know, however, that your parents have the right to live wherever they want, and do as they wish.

This means that unless they are mentally incapable or causing harm to others, they can make the choice concerning their housing, legal issues, care, and finances.”

“Sometimes what our elders want is not what we think they need. Our perception and their reality don’t match. But before you worry and argue yourself silly, know that individuals (read: our parents) have the right to live at risk at least until they’re deemed to be a danger to themselves and/or others.”