Our parents do so much for us that it’s only natural that we want to do everything we can to help them out as they get older. In fact, 87% of seniors who have a caregiver receive care from a family member. 

And, of that group, 52% live with their family members. If you’re getting ready to take on the role of caregiver for your aging parents, it can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure how to get started. 

Have no fear; we’ve got your back. Keep reading for a simple caring for aging parents checklist you can use to help make sure you’re not forgetting anything. 

Make Plans Ahead of Time

As your parents start getting older, make it a point to talk to them about where they would like to live if they can no longer live by themselves. 

Instead of waiting until they need immediate help, developing a plan – whether it’s in an assisted living facility or at home with you – can save you time and stress down the road. 

Around 70% of seniors over the age of 65 will eventually need long-term care, so it’s best to talk about it sooner rather than later. 

Set a Schedule

Taking care of aging parents is no easy task. Once you’ve decided that your parents will live with you, start by setting a schedule. This helps ensure that nothing is overlooked, like doctor’s appointments. 

It’s also a good idea to get your parents used to a routine by scheduling social events and outings or planning indoor activities for them to do. 

Give Them Space of Their Own

If you’re planning to provide long-term care to your parents, they’ll need a space of their own in which to live. If your home and budget allow for it, consider building a mother-in-law suite.

Otherwise, you can use an extra bedroom or bathroom to make them feel at home once they move into your place.

Talk to Their Doctors

Is there a medication schedule your parent needs to follow? Do they need to do physical therapy exercises due to an injury? This is all valuable information you need to know as a caregiver. 

Make sure you talk to all of their doctors, so you know how to administer proper care and be on the lookout for future health issues. 

Make Accessibility Modifications

Even if your parent can get around on their own for now, you might need to consider making accessibility modifications so they more easily navigate your home in the future. 

Consider adding safety grab bars in the bathroom to help prevent falls while bathing. Or, if your parent uses a wheelchair, you might need to add a ramp to the front of your home to replace entry steps.

Follow This Caring for Aging Parents Checklist

After reading through this caring for aging parents checklist, you can have peace of mind that you’re not forgetting anything as you take on this new role as a caregiver. 

Looking for more input on how to help aging parents? Check out our list of top caregiving advice.