The chances of needing medication grow as we age, but remembering to take medication can also be difficult for our aging parents. It’s easy to forget to take medication, especially when it’s newly prescribed or you have to take it more than once a day. But, it’s important that your loved one doesn’t forget their medication. If a medication has been prescribed, it’s because it’s needed, and not taking the medication can harm your loved one’s health. This is why medication management for mom and dad is so important.

Medication Management

Sometimes, our parents have a difficult time remembering to take their medication, or they aren’t able to due to health reasons, cognitive impairments, or mobility issues. Proper medication management is important because it keeps your parents safe. Medication management helps minimize the risk of adverse reactions, hospitalization, and even death in some cases. It’s also important to remember that medications are prescribed as treatment options. When those medications are skipped, it prevents your parents from receiving the intended benefits of the medication they need. Medication management also enhances the quality of life for your parents. It helps to control symptoms, improve mobility, and engage in everyday activities. Caregiving for elderly parents ensures that they are living safely and happily.

Meal Planning, Shopping, and Preparation

Caregivers can play a vital role in planning, shopping, and helping your parents prepare meals. This is especially important in the elderly who have diabetes and need to manage what types of food they eat. Once a doctor has been consulted, and you have a good understanding of what types of food your parents should and shouldn’t eat, it’s important to share that information with your parents’ caregiver. The caregiver will then help your parents prep meal plans and shop for the food. 

Some common diet recommendations for a diabetes meal list include: 

• Balanced meals – Focus on meals that are nutrient-rich. This includes food like lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables.
• Complex carbohydrates – When choosing carbohydrates that your parents can eat, it’s best to choose those with a lower glycemic index. They have a milder effect on blood sugar. 
• Fiber-rich foods – high-fiber foods like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts help regulate digestion, manage blood sugar levels, and support heart health.
• Healthy fats – Avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish support heart health and provide sustained energy. 
• Avoid or limit added sugars and refined carbohydrates.
• Stay hydrated – Dehydration can affect blood sugar levels, so drink plenty of water and unsweetened drinks.

The Benefits of Vitamin D

Not only is proper medication management and diabetic meal planning important for your parents, but making sure Vitamin D is included in their diet is extremely important. It offers several benefits to their health. 

Vitamin D is good for: 

• Bone health – It plays a crucial role in calcium absorption which is important for strong and healthy bones. 
• Muscle strength – Vitamin D is linked to muscle strength and function, which in turn reduces the risk of falling and falling-related injuries.
• Immune system support – Vitamin D levels in sufficient amounts aid in supporting immune function and reduce the risk of infections.
• Mood and mental well-being – Vitamin D has been associated with mood regulation and mental health. It can contribute to better emotional well-being. 

If you need help with medication management, meal planning (especially for those with diabetes), and integrating more Vitamin D into your parents’ diets, then contact us today. We can help your loved ones live a happy and healthy lifestyle. Schedule a free home care consultation with us today.