Millennials are expected to be the most educated and significant generation at least in Western history. Today, in 2018, Millennials are aged between 16 to 36 and pretty soon they will be the ones shouldering the responsibilities of caring for their parents and older relatives.
The characteristics of a Millennial has been described as digitally-savvy, independent-minded individuals who are also socially conscious, frugal and pragmatic. According to a 2015 study, Millennials handle health issues differently from Baby Boomers. For instance, instead of consulting with an expert, they would rather Google what they can do to make them healthy. They would opt for preventive care and turn to their social network for medical advice. They prefer medical apps and websites to seeing a doctor. And when faced with caring for an elderly or sick relative, they would rely on digital apps as much as possible.
In another study (Marketwatch), Millennials have no issue about assuming the responsibility of caring for their aging parents, but only 40% are willing to consider any long-term caregiver roles personally.
This implies that some time down the road, your children will want to ensure your peaceful and problem-free retirement years but will likely find professionals to care for your medical needs. One in every five Millennial is contributing to the financial requirements of their parents which means giving them money for their daily needs, among others.
Using Tech Care for the Sick and Elderly
Many aging parents would rather not live in nursing homes, no matter how lovely the facility is. Their preference is to be surrounded by all things and persons familiar, even if it means living alone.
Some of the technology that can be used to monitor aging or sick parents are computers, digital cameras, Skype, CCTV system, and apps that provide chat and socialization features. However, while all good and useful, technology is not good enough because the medical needs of an aging or sickly parent cannot be monitored via camera or app. A professional nurse should be available a few times a week to check up on the patient to ensure good health and proper nutrition.