Caring for aging parents

With the U.S. population aging, a growing number of people find themselves looking for answers and advice on how to best assist their aging parents.

A program "Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Caring For Your Aging Parents But Were Too Afraid To Ask" will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 14, at the Unitarian Church, 1330 Ridge Ave.

The event is open to the public, and aimed at providing answers and advice to caregivers who may be caring for a spouse, parent, or loved one.

“We’ve found that people are hungry for information and answers”, said Stephanie Smart, one of the organizers of the event. “People have questions. They want to know what services and options are available, how the system works, what things cost and what Medicare will pay for.”

Stephanie Smart works for Home Instead Senior Care, the organization sponsoring the event.

The event will include several professionals from various services and areas of aging, such as Evanston Skokie Valley Senior Services, Trusts and Elder Law, Geriatric Care Management, Nursing Home and Assisted Living, Home Health, and Long Term Care Insurance.

The forum will begin with brief presentations from each professional, including helpful advice and resources. The second half of the evening is structured so that attendees can ask questions and talk one-on-one with any of the professionals.

The concept of having the ‘difficult conversation’ with an elderly parent will also be discussed. The 40/70 Awareness Campaign helps people understand the need for family discussions on matters related to aging. The “40/70 Rule” refers to need start talking about things like advance directives and planning when children are over 40 or their parents are over 70.

“This is not a sales or promotional event,” said Smart. “No one will be pitching any products, or services. The point of this is for people to get answers to their questions about caring for their parents. That’s our goal.”

For more information about the event visit www.HomeInsteadChicago.com or contact Stephanie Smart at (847) 673-1250, stephanie.smart@homeinstead.com