As your elderly parents get older, one vital question oftentimes comes to mind: should they move in with you?
Why It May Be a Good Idea
Having your elderly parents move in with you has tons of benefits, especially when it comes to enjoying quality time together. You’ll get to see them on a daily basis, instead of on those rare occasions, such as Christmas, birthdays, and Thanksgiving.
In addition, you won’t ever have to worry if they’re taking proper care of themselves all alone in their own house. This is beneficial especially if your parents have been experiencing specific medical conditions, such as Alzheimer’s. Being in a familiar environment and surrounded by loved ones can help them feel more at ease.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
Can I Provide Them With the Care They Need?
On the other hand, it may have crossed your mind whether you will have the ability to provide the proper care for your aging parents. Even if you have their best interests at heart and have the mindset to provide their needs, you may not be medically qualified to offer comprehensive care.
Do I Have the Time?
In the event that you do have this complete knowledge, you surely have other responsibilities to tend to, such as your career, your children or pets, your significant other, and household chores. With your attention split over several aspects, you may be spreading yourself too thin. The hustle and bustle of everyday tasks would only make the situation more chaotic.
Aside from applying excessive stress onto yourself, the lack of attention could have adverse effects on your parents. You would most likely run the risk of putting their health in danger if you can’t be there for them round the clock.
Is My Home a Suitable Environment?
Another factor to consider is your home accommodations, most especially if they utilize wheelchairs or walkers. If you have the extra space in your home, then that’s great for both you and your parents. However, if space is tight, you may not have the right environment for your loved ones’ mobility needs.
To assist with their needs, costly modifications may need to be made in your home. The bathroom needs to be altered, wheelchair ramps need to be installed, countertops need to be lowered, among other renovations.
If this is the case and you want your aging parents to receive the best care possible and live in an environment that would enrich their lifestyle, you might consider looking into professional care.
Will It Put a Strain on Our Relationship?
Some people may find it challenging to live apart from their parents, no matter how old they are. When faced with such situations, it is important to keep in mind that their health is a priority. A solution to this would be to consider a senior care home or retirement facility. These types of establishments possess the facilities and skilled professionals who can provide optimal care for your loved ones.
Alternative Options
When looking for a senior health care home for your parents, make sure it’s one that has a reputation of trustworthy and professional care services. Your search for the ideal retirement home will start online. By visiting their websites, you can get an initial impression of what their objectives are. Remember to always read their mission statement first. By reading this portion, you can already gauge if they share the same beliefs as yours and your parents’. Browse through their site’s sections to learn more about their services, facilities, accommodations, amenities, and activities.
After narrowing down your list, it’s time to visit them in person. A place’s vibrations can tell you a lot about it. Does the retirement home feel warm and comfortable or does it appear like a cold and systematic space? Next, interact with the staff to find out if they’re friendly and approachable. Furthermore, have your parents try out the food to see if it suits their taste and if it’s healthy.
Your main goal is to discover whether the community is safe, vibrant, and optimistic. You wouldn’t want to entrust your loved ones to an establishment that feels like a prison. Rather, you would want them to feel like they can truly feel at home while making connections with the community.
Senior Downsizing & Relocation Services
At Your Next Steps, we understand the importance of giving your loved ones the best care on the planet. Give us a call today to learn more about our mission!
