The 3 Best Resources Aging Parents Should Take Advantage of Now

Like so many adult children caring for aging parents, you probably feel it is a privilege to do so. After all the loving care they provided to you growing up, you would like to do the same for them in their more vulnerable years. 

You may wonder how to go about caring for them. One of the best things you can do is to offer resources for your parents to allow them the balance and dignity of taking care of themselves for as long as possible while getting some guidance. The aging process sometimes creeps up without our recognizing the changes right away. Good resources can help you and your parents recognize any arising issues and find quick and effective ways to deal with them. 

Explore three of the best resources your aging parents should take advantage of now. 

1. Your Family

Whether that includes only you and your spouse, or an entire brood of siblings, your family is a core resource for your aging parents. The more people who can help, the better. With family checking in regularly, your parents will not feel so alone or lonely. Seeing their children and grandchildren's faces can brighten any day. Just as importantly, sharing the visitation and transportation schedule can help you as the primary adult caregiver find balance in your family life. While you love your parents and want to ensure their safety, well-being and happiness, you probably have a life and family of your own to take care of. 

2. Meal Delivery Service Programs

Most cities provide some type of outreach-based meal delivery service program for the area's senior citizens. These generous programs provide hot meals to seniors who are homebound or are recovering from an illness or injury and can help ease your mind and save money. You probably don't want to think of your aging parents eating salt-soaked frozen dinners, loaded with excess carbohydrates and preservatives, but you may not have time to make special meals and deliver them daily. Explore The Senior List to learn more about the best meal delivery for seniors. 

3. Health Insurance Coverage

Your aging parents need to consider the best health insurance plans for their physical and mental well-being and finances. You may find yourself wondering who is eligible for Medicare. Fortunately, the eligibility requirements are simple: 

• Individuals 65 years or older and eligible for Social Security benefits are automatically enrolled 

• U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident in the country for five years 

• Persons under 65 with permanent disability and receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits 

• Individuals of any age with End-stage Renal Disease

• Sufferers of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease

You’re eligible for Medicare Advantage (Part C), Prescription Drug (Part D) or Medicare Supplement plans after you’ve signed up for Original Medicare Part A and Part B. These supplemental add-ons are available from private, Medicare-approved insurers. Make sure that the plan you wish to sign up for is available in your area.

Peace of Mind 

You will probably always worry about the welfare of your aging parents, but providing them with the best resources can help you rest easier. With all the family's help, assistance from local meal delivery services, and a high-caliber health insurance strategy, you are off to a great start in helping your parents continue aging safely for the long-term.