A checklist of important questions to ask your aging parent

Later in life, there may come a time when your aging parent can no longer live independently. Even if they are in fairly good shape, they may still struggle to maintain a household, find they aren't as active and social as they once were, feel less motivated to cook nutritional meals, or even experience feelings of loneliness. Though most adult children begin exploring retirement support options for their parents following a medical scare, it's always best to plan ahead and help your loved one to be proactive about their health and well-being.

如果你认为你的父母已经准备好接受更多的支持，或者可能很快就准备好了，这里有一个问题清单，可以帮助你们一起规划未来，在医疗紧急情况开始为你展开对话之前。

Discussing living arrangements

AARPsuggests asking this list of questions related to your loved one's current living arrangement:

  • Is your current living environment still conducive to your health and wellness?
  • 你爬楼梯的能力如何?你喜欢住在单层的房子里吗?
  • 家里有什么安全隐患吗?
  • Are you comfortable living on your own, or do you find you feel unsafe or lonely?
  • Are there any improvements we can make to ensure a safer living environment?
  • Have you ever thought of moving elsewhere?

The source also recommends asking these questions in regard to your aging parent's activities and mobility:

  • Do you need help with chores around the house, such as cleaning, cooking and keeping the yard tidy?
  • 你的视力是否曾经阻碍你进行日常活动?
  • How is your hearing?
  • Do you ever have trouble driving?
  • 如果你不是自己开车，你有可靠的交通工具去赴约、参加社交活动和去杂货店吗?

Care & Wellness Considerations

In regard to your aging parent's health,Real Simple magazinesuggests asking this list of questions:

  • Should the need arise, may I have permission to speak with your doctor in case we have questions or concerns about your medical treatment?
  • Based on your health, has your doctor made any suggestions about receiving more care or support?
  • Do you have any advanced care planning documents? If so, where do you keep them? Who do you mind sharing them with?
  • Have you created a will or trust, and assigned someone as your Power of Attorney?

If your aging parent is ready to seek more support, and you both believe retirement living may be the best option to address their unique needs, consider taking a tour of a Chartwell retirement residence. They offer a variety ofcare and accommodation optionsthat cater to each and every senior no matter what stage of retirement they are in.Click herefor more information.