Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Live With A Sick Parent

Sadly there are children and adults who take on extra burdens and responsibilities due to having a sick parent. To ease the stress and constant worry and demands of this stressful life, try to follow these suggestions.


Instructions


1. Learn about your parent's illness so you know what to expect. It is much better to know than to be surprised by side effects or debilitating diseases.


2. Go with them to doctor visits so you can stay up to date on their well being.


3. Study the medical jargon or ask the doctor to explain in layman's terms in order to stay on top of the situation and not be confused.








4. Keep an eye on their prescriptions and look up side affects. Ask the doctor about mixing prescriptions and remember that mixing prescriptions can sometimes cause even more problems.


5. Don't let your parent's medical problems consume your life.


6. Take time for yourself. If there isn't a family member who can give you a break talk to the doctor about having a home health nurse come in for a few hours a week. In order to give your parent the best care you must take care of yourself first.


7. There are many different kinds of help for people who have ill parents. Check at the hospital, the doctor's office and with services for senior citizens. They can guide you in the right direction.


8. No matter how bad your parent's health becomes, never feel it's your fault.

Tags: your parent, doctor about, mixing prescriptions