If your senior parent wants to continue living on their own but they have a medical condition like kidney disease you’re probably worried about their ability to live on their own. But your senior mom or dad may be able to manage their kidney disease and live quite well on their own. Senior home care services are a great service for seniors who want to age in place but have health concerns.
If your mom or dad has senior home care they will get regular visits from a care provider who can help them manage their medications, keep up with household tasks, and make sure they get to their medical appointments safely.
Senior home care can help your mom or dad live where they want to live and give you the peace of mind of knowing your mom or dad is being taken care of when you can’t be there.
Some of the ways that caregivers can help your senior parent at home are:
Help with Meal Planning and Cooking
Your mom or dad probably needs to be careful about what they eat if they have kidney disease. Too much salt, potassium, or phosphorus can be harmful to their health. A home care provider can help by preparing meals that are healthy and tasty and contain foods safe for your mom or dad to eat. They can plan menus, grocery shop, and cook meals so that your mom or dad always has healthy foods in the house.
Remind Them to Take Medications
Managing kidney disease often requires taking multiple medications at the right times. A home care provider can remind your parent to take their medications at the right times. They can also keep track of refills and help them stay organized with pillboxes or medication lists. And if your mom or dad needs to pick up medications a care provider can pick them up.
Assist with Transportation to Medical Appointments
Regular check-ups with doctors and specialists are important for managing kidney disease. A home care provider can drive your parent to their medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or lab tests. They can also take notes during visits and ask questions or raise concerns with healthcare professionals if you can’t be at the visit. This ensures that your parent gets the care they need without struggling with transportation issues.
Encourage Proper Hydration and Fluid Management
People with kidney disease often have strict fluid intake guidelines. Some may need to drink more water, while others have to limit fluids. A home care provider can help by tracking how much your parent drinks daily and reminding them to follow their doctor’s recommendations. Staying properly hydrated is important for kidney health and overall well-being.
Assist with Daily Activities and Fall Prevention
Weakness, dizziness, or swelling caused by kidney disease can make daily tasks harder. A home care provider can assist with activities like dressing, bathing, and moving safely around the house. They can also help keep the home free of tripping hazards, such as loose rugs or clutter. By ensuring a safe environment, they reduce the risk of falls and injuries.