Americans are living a long time.
In fact, the average lifespan in the United States is just a shade under 79 years — almost a full decade longer than in 1960. And if 79 years old is the average, you know that many Americans are living even longer, often into their 90s.
Those data certainly seem to be true based on observation at Take My Hand At Home Care here in Whatcom County. Many of the people helped by our caregivers are in their 90s.
Something particularly interesting about that statistic as it relates to family caregiving is that elders in their 90s typically have children in their 60s and 70s. That’s pretty old for the challenging work of caring for mom and dad on a daily basis, especially if health problems are involved.
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What’s more, their grandchildren are often in their 30s and 40s, meaning that they’re so busy with children, careers and the daily pressures of life that it’s a challenge for them to have time and energy to help their elderly grandparents with the activities of daily living. And when these members of the sandwich generation do provide eldercare, it’s usually at the expense of some other aspect of life.
That’s why the support of a part-time or full-time caregiver can be so critical. When the eldest generation needs help at home, caregivers from organizations such as Take My Hand in Lynden can be lifesavers. We offer in-home assessments to better understand the needs and expectations of you and your loved ones.
As we age, much of what we love to do — driving, gardening, walking, shopping, cooking, etc. — becomes increasingly difficult. However, at-home caregivers can step in and help out when family members aren’t able.
Is your loved one unable to drive?
Don’t let that hold them back.
There’s no need for family members to feel guilty about not being able to help mom or dad on a daily basis. If you’re in your 70s, or if you’re younger and with kids of your own to care for, not being able to be there to care for your elderly parents every day is completely understandable.
Take My Hand At Home Care provides caregiving services throughout Whatcom County, including in Bellingham, Lynden, Ferndale, Birch Bay, Blaine and Everson. Give us a call today to talk about how we can help.
