Balancing career and care is not easy. And when it’s about caring for a sick spouse, aging parents, or in-laws, the task becomes challenging. One reason behind this is that an aging adult has different needs and medical conditions. In such demographics, isolation, boredom, and loneliness are some of the issues commonly faced. Moreover, aging adults develop dexterity issues, mobility, and visual impairment, which further deteriorates their physical and mental well-being.

Taking care of aging parents is one of the top priorities for a majority of people. While most prefer to take the job at their hands, others take the help of professional care providers.

But thanks to technology and innovations like the best tablet for older adults, the lives of both the aging adult and caregivers have significantly changed for better. These devices not only help seniors connect with their family and friends, but they also function as a brain stimulator. Research has indicated that the use simplified bedside technologies can delay dementia and memory loss in aging adults.

In this blog, let’s look into some ways to balance career and care for the elderly during this pandemic.

Tip #1 Set objective: You have to understand that our parents are as stressed as us during this hard time. Your first focus should be to help them fathom the gravity of the situation. Sit with them and try to break down the situation to them. If your elderly parents live with you, make it a point to spend some quality time with them before you head to work. In case your parents live away alone or in care-facility, use technologies like tablet designed for seniors to stay in touch with them. Don’t let your parents or spouse feel lonely or isolated during this hard time.

Tip #2 Set Boundaries: Although you provide care to your aging parent while working at home, it doesn’t change your responsibilities towards your work. Thus, it’s essential to let your parents know when you can’t be disturbed during work. Give them visual clues to let them know when they can come to you and when not. If you tend to an elderly with a fall risk, consider installing a web camera in the house or the staircase to keep a watch on them while they use the steps. Most webcams come with alert feature that allows one to know when their parents have left the room.

If your parents live in a care home, let the caregivers know when you are available over the phone or text.

Tip #3 Take care of your health: When caring for your parents, you must give as much emphasis on your health. Given the nature of the job, caregivers tend to experience depression and stress. Most are unable to manage anxiety and depression that come due to less sleep and rest. Thus, it’s essential to take care of your health as well. From simple things like staying hydrated, taking enough sleep, eating healthy, there are a lot of ways to wade off stress and anxiety. Look online for fitness classes or yoga sessions that you can do in your room. Meditation is another way to boost your immunity and regain mental and physical strength.