While in some instances it is evident that an elderly individual requires the aid of a caregiver, or would benefit from residing in a senior living community, other cases aren’t quite as clear cut. For example, some people past retirement age may encounter an occasional lapse in memory or struggle to walk up stairs. As such, they don’t yet require the support and attention provided in residences – and could very well prefer to stay in their own homes – but their family members may still have concerns about their well-being if they live on their own.
Recently, the regional media outlet Dallas News shared the story of a family that has been struggling with this very issue. Angela Thomas and her husband found themselves taking on the role of caregivers for an elderly relative, and Thomas soon found herself overwhelmed by the task.
The source refers to this as a tipping point – “the moment when it becomes clear that the existing care arrangement is no longer working: Elderly parents are no longer able to cope on their own or an elder in an independent living community begins to require constant medical attention. Or […] the elder is getting good care, but the caregiver is burning out.”
It will fall to every family, and the eldercare professionals they have enlisted, to determine the best way to proceed when this moment arises. In some cases, the introduction of technology-enabled eldercare solutions like those offered by Independa may alleviate such strain while ensuring that the needs of a care recipient are met. Innovations like remote monitoring can allow older individuals to remain in their homes, secure in the knowledge that someone is looking out for them, and that they can contact a care professional or loved one whenever they need to.
Care managers, meanwhile, can expand their offerings to potential clients who fall within this gray area, and ease the transition for those who eventually move into residence. Contact us through our online form today to learn how Independa can help with this process.
