Baby boomers likely will become caregivers for their parents, but many are unsure how exactly to provide that care, according to a recent survey from a national company that helps seniors live in their own homes.
Home Instead Senior Care surveyed 600 caregivers between the ages of 45 and 65 to see whether they were current on their parents' vital information in the event of a health emergency.
According to the survey, 31 percent of caregivers don't know how many or what kinds of medications their parents take. The survey also found that 34 percent don't know whether their parents have safety deposit boxes or where the key is, and 36 percent don't know where their parents' financial information is located.
Dr. Neil Resnick, professor and chief of geriatrics at UPMC, is not surprised by the results. He said that, typically, the elderly will talk only to a spouse about their vital information.
"If you had hemorrhoids, there is a chance you wouldn't feel comfortable sharing that information with your children because it is an uncomfortable topic," he said. "Since the children don't know that information, it is impossible for them to know what medicines to give, and other similar information."
Although Resnick agrees with the need for seniors to have a plan, it is usually divulged to the spouse and not the child, something not accounted for in the survey, he said. Baby boomers are "likely" to become caregivers, but until they actually take on that role, sensitive information will be withheld from them, he said.
Teryl McCaffery, director of operations at Home Instead Senior Care of Braddock, said knowing how to help can go a long way for adults with elderly parents.
"Everybody wants to be independent, and nobody investigates important information until there is a crisis situation," McCaffery said. "Children, friends and spouses need to be familiar with this information, because having money in the bank doesn't do any good if nobody knows it's there."
Kurt Emmerling, bureau safety chief of the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging, said a primary reason why caregivers are unaware of key information is because seniors who grew up during the Depression have a keen sense of independence.
"Requests for information can be met with resistance at times, but it is important to develop an action plan to make sure everyone's interests are kept in mind," he said. "Those receiving care need to know that developing a clear and concise plan is the easiest way to have their wishes accurately met."
Lisa Monday, administrator of the Butler County Area Agency on Aging, says it can be too difficult to develop a plan in the heat of the moment. She recommends getting answers about medicines and when they should be taken, the location of important assets, who has power of attorney and whether parents have a living or regular will.
"Caregivers take on that role literally from one day to the next because if someone has a negative health event, they immediately become helpless," Monday said. "Many health episodes happen quickly, making it increasingly important to have the necessary background so decisions can be made quickly in a time of need."
Source: yellowbrix
