The Ultimate Guide to Managing Elderly Care for Parents Living Alone in India

Do you worry about your ageing parents living alone in India while you're miles away? As an NRI child, managing NRI parent's care can be a constant source of stress. The distance creates challenges in ensuring their well-being, from daily needs to medical emergencies. So, the question arises: how can you properly care for your parents living alone miles away from you? That is where this article comes in. Here are 12 ways in which you can take care of your parents if you are an NRI. So, let's get started.

What are the Challenges That Elderly Parents Face When Living Alone?

Living alone can pose several challenges for older NRI parents in India. Some of the key challenges they might face are:

1. Physical Health Issues

Elderly individuals often suffer from chronic conditions like arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes. These conditions can make it difficult for them to move around, perform household chores, or even maintain personal hygiene.

2. Mental Health Concerns

Loneliness and isolation can lead to depression and anxiety. Without regular social interaction, elderly parents living alone may feel disconnected from the world.

3. Difficulty in Managing Finances

Cognitive decline can make it hard for elderly parents to manage their finances effectively. They may forget to pay bills on time or become victims of financial scams.

4. Nutrition and Meal Preparation

Preparing nutritious meals can be challenging for elderly parents, especially if they have physical limitations. This can lead to malnutrition and health complications.

5. Safety Concerns

Elderly parents living alone are at a higher risk of accidents like falls. They may also be more vulnerable to medical crises.

6. Difficulty with Transportation

As they age, driving can become more difficult and dangerous for elderly parents. This can limit their ability to run errands, attend medical appointments, or visit friends and family.

How can I Take Care of my Parents in India if I am an NRI?

Now, the question comes: how to take care of old people? Taking care of your parents from abroad can be challenging, but it's possible with the right resources and planning. Some of the ways for NRIs to care for their parents are:

1. Regular Communication

Regular communication is crucial when you're living away from your parents. You can schedule daily or weekly calls to check on their well-being. Video calls are a great way to make them feel closer to you. You can use various apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime to do this. Regular communication will keep you updated about their health and make them feel loved and cared for.

2. Hire Domestic Help

If your parents are elderly or have health issues, managing household chores can be physically demanding. Hiring domestic help can ease their burden. The helper can assist with cleaning, cooking, shopping, and even personal care. Hire someone trustworthy and treat them well to ensure they stay long-term.

3. Health Insurance

Healthcare can be expensive, especially for the elderly. Having a good health insurance policy is essential. It helps in covering regular medical check-ups, prescription medicines, and hospitalisation costs. Some insurance policies also offer cashless treatment, meaning the insurance company will pay the hospital bills directly. This can make the access to healthcare services more easy.

4. Regular Health Check-ups

Regular health check-ups can help detect potential health issues early. Arrange for your parents to have routine check-ups. You can do this by booking appointments with their doctor or through home healthcare services. Keep yourself updated about their health condition by speaking directly with the doctor or through medical reports. 

5. Emergency Services

In case of unforeseen circumstances, your parents should be able to contact emergency services immediately. This includes ambulance services, police, and the fire department. You can help them by ensuring these numbers are easily accessible, perhaps saved on speed dial on their phones. Additionally, various emergency alert services can provide immediate assistance at the push of a button. These services can be beneficial when it comes to taking care of elderly parents living alone.

6. Home Safety Measures

As your parents age, their mobility can become limited, increasing the risk of accidents at home. To ensure their safety, install anti-slip mats in bathrooms and other slippery areas, add handrails on stairs and hallways, and ensure the house is well-lit to prevent falls. If your parents have significant mobility issues, consider investing in aids like walkers, wheelchairs, or even stairlifts.

7. Financial Management

With ageing, managing finances can become daunting for them. You can assist your parents by setting up automated systems for bill payments, investments, and other regular financial transactions. This can help them avoid late payments and penalties. Additionally, you can help them with tax filing and managing their bank accounts. 

8. Legal Matters

Legal matters can often be complex and stressful. Your parents may need assistance handling legal matters such as property management, will preparation, power of attorney, and other legal documentation. You can assist them in hiring a lawyer who can guide them through the legal processes and ensure all matters are handled correctly. 

9. Social Engagement

Encourage your parents to participate in social activities that align with their interests. This could be anything from joining a book club, gardening group, yoga class or volunteering at a local charity. Participating in these activities can help them stay mentally active, meet new people, and prevent feelings of isolation. It also gives them a sense of community and belonging, which is crucial for mental well-being. You could help them find local clubs or groups or set up regular activities with friends.

10. Technology Assistance

Technology can be a powerful tool for your parents to stay connected and independent. Start by teaching them the basics of using a smartphone or computer. Show them how to make video calls, send emails, use social media, and shop online. 

Numerous apps are designed for seniors to help them manage their health, stay organised, and keep in touch with family. Learning new skills can take time, so be patient and supportive. You could also consider hiring a tech tutor if your parents need more assistance.

11. Home Delivery Services

Online services have enabled almost anything to be delivered to your doorstep. Teach your parents to order groceries, medicines, and other essentials online. This not only saves them the trouble of going out, especially during harsh weather or in times of health crises, but also allows them access to a wider range of products. 

Many of these services also offer the option to schedule regular deliveries, ensuring your parents never run out of what they need. You could help them set up accounts on various delivery platforms and teach them to place orders.

12. Support Groups

There are various support groups available for senior citizens. These groups provide a platform for seniors to share their experiences, concerns, and advice. They also organise various activities and events, giving your parents opportunities to socialise and stay active. 

You can help your parents find local support groups or online communities they might be interested in. These groups can provide emotional support, companionship, and a sense of community, greatly enhancing their quality of life. 

What are the Opportunities for Elderly Care in India?

India’s population is ageing, which presents both challenges and opportunities in providing care for the elderly. Some potential areas for improvement in elderly care in India include:

1. Government Programs

The Indian government has initiated several schemes for the welfare of senior citizens. Among these are the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Scheme, which offers financial security and assurance to senior citizens, and the National Programme for Healthcare of Elderly (NPHCE), which emphasises preventive and promotive care, illness management, geriatric services manpower development, medical rehabilitation and therapeutic intervention, and information, education, and communication (IEC).

2. Community Organisations

Community-based organisations are instrumental in empowering the elderly. NGOs such as Manavlok and Abhoy Mission actively support the elderly through various initiatives, including sessions on computer usage and internet navigation, thereby digitally empowering them.

3. Government Committees

Ministerial committees are committed to formulating policies for elderly welfare. For instance, the National Council for Older Persons (NCOP) advises the government on developing and implementing policies and programs for the aged.

4. Private Sector Involvement

Numerous companies and startups are developing innovative solutions for elder care. Firms like Seniorworld and 60Plus India are making substantial contributions by offering various services, including nursing care, assisted living facilities, and in-home care.

5. Home-Based Elder Care

There is an increasing demand for elder care services delivered at home. Companies such as Emoha and 60Plus India provide services like doctor visits, nursing care, physiotherapy, and lab sample collection at home.

6. Specialised Care for the Elderly

There is a growing need for specialised care that caters to the unique health needs of older people. This includes a range of medical and non-medical services. Geriatric care goes beyond treating illnesses and aims to promote functional independence, prevent disability, and ensure a better quality of life.

7. Insurance Opportunities

Although health insurance is available for older people, less than 2% utilise it. This allows insurance companies to design products specifically for older people. Comprehensive health insurance is vital for their well-being and peace of mind as it helps cover the cost of medical treatments and hospitalisation.

How can NoBroker Help You?

NRI parent's care requires commitment, kindness, and thoughtful planning. Remember, helping your ageing parents is not just a responsibility but also a chance to show our love and thankfulness for everything they have done for you. So, get the best NRI parent care for your parents today. 

NoBroker's services can be a valuable resource for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) looking to ensure their parents' well-being in India. While NoBroker is primarily a real estate platform, it also offers a range of housing services that can assist your parents.

Ensure your NRI parents' well-being with NoBroker's tailored services. From home cleaning and repairs to appliance maintenance and relocation assistance, we've got it covered. Trust us to keep your parents safe and comfortable, giving you peace of mind.

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