We understand how daunting it can be for an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) to ensure that elderly parents living alone in India receive the care and support they need. Children worry about their parent’s well-being, health, and happiness, often more when they are far away and do not have direct access to the healthcare provider or medical records. This is why NRIs need to understand the challenges and opportunities of providing quality medical care for aging parents in India. Knowing the available options and how other NRIs deal with long-distance caregiving is helpful.
What Are the Challenges that Elderly Parents Face When Living Alone?
Elderly parents whose children are NRIs or live separately face a variety of challenges due to the long distance between them. Adapting to a different lifestyle and climate, the requirement of performing daily chores, and new processes in a new place can seem difficult and overwhelming for the elderly. Most of them are averse to relocating to another city or country, and emigrating permanently to be with their children is not an option for all. Furthermore, most NRI parents feel a sense of loneliness, anxiety, fear, and uncertainty due to the physical separation from their children. Communication can be challenging, as many elderly parents may not have access to or knowledge of the latest technologies, making it difficult to stay in touch. The lack of good old-age homes and the difficulty for elderly parents to accept moving out of their homes causes major emotional turmoil. Multiple comorbidities, limited mobility, bed-bound patients, and chronic health issues additionally require regular vigilant monitoring by a medical professional.
How Can I Take Care of My Parents in India if I am an NRI?
Fortunately, there are several options available for NRIs who are looking to provide elderly care for their aging parents living alone in India. Home care services are one of the most popular options, as they offer personalized care and support to elderly parents without needing them to move into an assisted living facility. Apart from that, you can take care of your parents by the following:
Encourage your parents to get regular health check-ups and screenings to identify potential health issues early on. It is recommended that you be in touch with your parent’s physician or care coordinator so you are kept informed of their health progress. The elderly benefit most by being under the continued guidance of a trusted general physician or primary care physician who acts as the one-point contact and helps coordinate the care between various specialists.
Make sure your parents receive recommended vaccinations, such as flu shots and pneumonia vaccines, on time, to help prevent illnesses.
Help your parents manage chronic health conditions they may have, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, by ensuring they take their medications as prescribed and attend all medical appointments.
Encourage healthy habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep, to help prevent chronic health conditions.
Ensure that your parents have access to clean drinking water, nutritious food, and a safe living environment to reduce their risk of illness. An occupational therapist consultation often helps to identify specific areas based on individual needs where minor interventions can make daily activities more comfortable. Watch the video to learn more.
Stay informed about local health events and resources, such as health fairs and community support groups, to help your parents stay connected to their community and access the resources they need to maintain their health.
Ensure your parents have access to quality healthcare services when needed by finding a reliable and trusted healthcare provider and ensuring they have appropriate health insurance coverage.
You can help by setting up automatic bill payments, reviewing their bank statements, and helping them create a budget.
Be attentive to your parents' mental health needs, especially when experiencing social isolation or loneliness. Encourage social activities and regular communication with friends and family members.
Make sure the home is safe for your parents. This may include installing grab bars in the bathroom, making sure the home is well-lit, removing any tripping hazards, etc.
In case of an emergency, be prepared to act quickly and seek medical attention as needed. Have a plan in place for whom to contact and how to access emergency services.
Remember, caring for your parent’s health is a long-term commitment, so prioritize it and stay consistent with your efforts to support their well-being. Whether you are an NRI or staying in India, but distant from your parents (albeit in different states or cities), you can take advantage of our elderly home care services.
Opportunities for Elderly Care in India
The elderly care industry in India is rapidly evolving, with many new services and innovations. Home care services are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer personalized care and support to elderly parents without needing them to move into an assisted living facility. Identifying an excellent primary healthcare team that provides a home visit option whenever required is most suitable.
Easy payment options: Many payment platforms work on OTP systems, and most offline service providers prefer cash payments, making it challenging for NRIs. Try staying with service providers that understand your position as an NRI and accept bank funds transfers.
Technology-assisted care is also becoming more common, allowing aging parents to stay connected with their families and receive remote monitoring and medical care.
Contact PHE to Give the Best Elderly Care for your Elder Ones!
Ensuring elderly care for aging parents living alone in India is an essential responsibility for NRIs. It is important to understand the various challenges and opportunities when providing elderly care for aging parents in Mumbai or any other part of India. By understanding the options available and the benefits of elderly care at home, NRIs can ensure that their aging parents receive the care and support they need to remain happy and healthy. Contact us if you need help finding the right care and assistance for your parents in India at PHE Healthcare today!
