Care
You're trying to do right by them, and nobody gave you the manual. Start with what's in front of you this week.
Tools you can use today
7 changes to watch forA checklist for the visit homeCan they still live alone?A self-check that starts with what they wantIf they fell, who would know?Free phone and watch features firstLiving far away: a weekly planWho calls, who's nearby, and what happens if nobody answersIs this a scam?Check a call, text or email in a minuteThe family safe wordSet one up this visitThe Fridge CardPrint it at home. Nothing is uploadedIs that nursing home any good?Any home's ratings, staffing, inspections and finesCould you find their papers?A checklist to go through together, free to print52 questions for your parentsFree to print, one for every week
The bigger questions
Are they safe at home?Staying safeHow do we pay for this?Paying for careCan I get paid to look after Mom?Getting paid to care for a parentIs it too late for a power of attorney?Power of attorney and legal papersWhen is it time to move?When it may be time to moveIs this normal aging, or something more?Memory and agingIs Dad ignoring me, or can he not hear me?HearingShould Dad still be driving?DrivingI can't keep doing this. What now?Caregiver burnoutWhat if my brothers and sisters don't agree?Brothers and sistersHow far will their Social Security go?Their money · Early pageIs that nursing home any good?Nursing homes
“Early page” means we've checked a few facts and pointed you to the official source. The full guide is still being written. See also our data on what fraud costs people over 60.
Need a person to talk to?
The Eldercare Locator is a free government service that connects families to local help: 800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov.
If your parent says they feel hopeless, or you're worried they may hurt themselves, call or text 988 right away. If it's an emergency, call 911.