By Amber Bowman
As our parents age, their needs often exceed what we can provide on our own. Recognizing when outside help is necessary and knowing how to navigate this new phase can be challenging. Stephanie Richards has been through quite the journey in finding help for both her parents and was exceptional in making sure they got the best care. Both parents are now taken care of by care professionals who truly care and have become part of the family. Below is Stephanie’s story and some advice for those who are at the point of finding outside help for aging loved ones.
Like many others, Stephanie and her siblings slowly experienced how things weren’t right with their aging parents and were met with resistance when talking about bringing in help. It wasn’t until her dad called with a banking mishap that the siblings saw the extent of their parent’s cognitive decline. Shortly after, their father had a fall and was unable to care for their mother- or hide any longer that the time had come for outside help.
Stephanie and her siblings jumped right in and moved her parents into an assisted living facility. Stephanie quickly realized the care her parents needed was not being met by the few caregivers tasked with the large number of clients. They then tirelessly moved to multiple other facilities. Stephanie always followed up with where or whoever was taking care of her parents and was astonished to learn of the impersonal and sometimes neglectful way they were cared for. After months and months, out of options, and at her wits end, Stephanie remembered thinking “ There has to be better care of the elderly”.
Stephanie contacted Synergy with low expectations but has since been blown away. She explained how Synergy listened thoroughly to what kind of care her parents needed and made a plan based on those needs. Her family worked with a few different care professionals until the right companionship and team was formed. Stephanie said “They truly care, and that is everything. I finally feel like I have a team of people who have come alongside me and are helping me carry the heavy load of caring for both my parents, and Synergy cares for them the way I care for them myself”.
Stephanie experienced how finding quality care for her aging parents took careful consideration, research, and communication. One thing she said would have helped was having more open communication at the beginning of her parents’ cognitive decline. In addition to getting their important paperwork in order such as doctors, medication list, and wills in place. Some older generations can be resistant to help and are used to keeping things private, so this can be challenging but crucial when the time comes for outside care.
When the time comes to move to a facility or better yet hire in home care, it’s a good idea to not only research but visit and meet up with each agency. Even after you start care make sure to follow up and always check in with loved ones. If you are worried, having extra security like a camera in the room, can shine light on the treatment your loved one is getting. In finding the right caregiver, Stephanie advises to find someone who listens, has great energy, is confident, and compassionate.
After working with Synergy, Stephanie describes her relief, “They are all I asked for and more. I finally have a life again and am not worried about my parents”. Both parents are even improving significantly in their cognitive function! So while the road may be rough and continue to have its challenges, ensuring your aging parents receive the care they deserve can ultimately bring comfort, peace of mind, and a deep sense of love and gratitude for the precious time shared together.
