-Focus on encouraging your parent to eat and drink the proper balance to maintain healthy bowel function
-Remember that it is not important that your parent eats three meals a day. Instead, it is important that they get the right balance of nutrition. They may feel more comfortable eating several small meals or snacks throughout the day
-If they do not have the appetite for solid food, try encouraging them to get more nutrition through beverages, such as smoothies or protein shakes
-Avoid supplementation without first talking to your parent’s doctor and making sure that it is safe and healthy for their particular situation
-Pay close attention to the doctor’s recommendations for what foods that your parent should and should not, and any beverages that they should avoid
-Remember that if your parent was on a specific diet or had dietary restrictions prior to their heart surgery that these specifications likely still apply and will need to be addressed. Talk to their doctor about these restrictions and how to best integrate them into your parent’s after-surgery care routine
-If your parent is only able to eat small amounts, focus on the highest nutritional value first. Getting enough protein is more important than eating lettuce or other low-nutritional foods
If your aging parent has been living with challenges and limitations, their needs have increased, or your schedule has changed to the point that you do not feel as though you can fulfill their needs effectively, now may be the ideal time for you to start home care for them.
An in-home senior care services provider can be an exceptional source of support in your care routine for your parent, filling care gaps and ensuring that your parent has everything that they need both when you are with them and when you are not. As a family caregiver, this can give you peace of mind that your parent will be in good hands and have the level of support and assistance that they need and deserve, while also allowing you the time, energy, and resources to manage the other obligations and responsibilities in your life as well.
Co-Owner, First Choice Senior Care
Kayla Stephens is the co-owner of First Choice Senior Care. She grew up in Northeast Arkansas, and has worked in rehabilitation, hospice care, managed nursing homes and a large home care agency. She has received several awards for sales and quality achievements in hospice and long-term care.
Kayla believes in advocating for and educating seniors and their families on a variety of topics and issues that impact them. Reflecting on the need for an independent home care provider interested in quality over quantity, she chased her dream of building her own company that would make a significant difference in the lives of seniors, providing a much-needed service in her own local community.
Kayla holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Arkansas State University, is licensed by the state of Arkansas as a Long-Term Care Administrator, and is a Certified Senior Adviser.
Expert Members of
Approved Senior Network
All Rights Reserved | First Choice Senior Care