> How old?
> Current health status? Chronic illnesses? Cognitive health?
> Current level of independence or dependence for daily living?
> Recognition of need for assistance?
> Level of wealth, property, investments and liquid cash?
> Level of income - degree still dependent on parents working FT, PT or now on pension, social security or other retirement monthly income?
> Level of debts needing to be paid off or serviced?
> Presence of non-family social support?
> Living proximity to you?
> How much time monthly can you devout to helping?
> What is your own financial strength and ability / willingness to help financially?
> What level of trust do your parents have in you?
> How comfortable are your parents with technology?
> Do your parents have access to high speed internet?
> Availability of assisted living and/or nursing home facilities
> And more
I personally have walked a pretty long road of being the lead caregiver, guardian during 20 years of declining health and increased dependence from my own parents with each eventually dying in their mid-80s.
It feels like the only generic advice is something like the following.
> Spend regular time with them and pay attention to changes
> Keep their dignity in mind - no one likes the process of becoming more dependent on others
> Be willing to calmly but firmly advocate for them with doctors and institutional caregivers
> Technology may not help nearly as much as you imagine
> Effective assistance will be more expensive in time and money than you currently envision
> Effective assistance will be more expensive in time and money than you currently envision.
Yea
