First, figure out what kind of help your parent needs and what time of day it's needed. Your father may only need someone to keep him company and prepare his meals while you're at work. If your mother's being discharged from the hospital after a fall, she may need physical therapy and overnight supervision by a home-health aide. Talk to your parent's physician and a social worker or a hospital discharge planner about your parent's needs.

Next, find out which programs and services are available where your parent lives. A social worker or hospital discharge planner can provide a list of local home-health agencies, skilled nursing services, medical-equipment providers, and community-assistance programs. If you're searching for services on your own, start with the Administration on Aging's Eldercare Locator (800-677-1116). It provides leads to hot lines, toll-free numbers, and resources in all 50 states.