Caring for Mom and brother on benefits alone
April 11, 2011
Marilyn Herrin, 68, retired from her job in human resources before she was ready, but the economic downturn left her with few alternatives, according to The Akron Beacon Journal. Additionally, her 74-year-old brother and 96-year-old mother needed her help.
While she had lived in Virginia, Herrin visited her family in Texas two or three times a year. Eventually, the trips became too expensive and she decided to move back.
”The costs were getting so cumbersome,” she told the news provider. ”It was horrible. Physically, it was getting draining for me.”
Now, Herrin lives on an annuity and Social Security checks. Retirement may seem to be an appealing way to spend more time with loved ones who are in need of care, but some experts advise against it. One should first take into account all other factors before making the decision.
One way to help guarantee more safety to a parent may be to install a personal emergency response system in a senior’s residence. These medical alert systems can be used to instantly send a medical alert to a call center if an older adult suffers an unexpected injury.
Caregivers should also reach out to family and friends who are able to lend a helping hand. This can provide one with much-needed relief and help with stress management.
