While moving your aging parent into your home could seem like the best way to provide care to them, there are a few questions you should ask. Taking over your aging parent’s care can be a daunting, and full-time, task. Overall, it is important to make sure that you, your family, and your parent are all on the same page.
Is My Home Prepared for the Move?
Not only will you have another person in the home, but you may need to consider how your home can or can’t suit your loved one’s needs. Do you have steep stairs? Do you have grab bars in the bathroom? Are there enough bathrooms to sustain another individual? Do you have any major tripping hazards in the home? Generally, these questions can help you determine if this can be a good move. Additionally, you may need to consider other aspects based on their needs. If they are living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, the change of venue may confuse them greatly. It is important to understand these challenges and consider making the necessary modifications where possible.
How Will Moving My Parent Affect Our Relationship?
Living with your parent after you have lived on your own can be stressful. The Parent-child dynamic may already be tense. However, When the roles are reversed, it can be even more challenging. Privacy issues can also arise. It is important to talk with your loved one ahead of time and set boundaries with each other.
How Will Moving My Parent Affect My Family?
This move will affect your children and spouse, too. It is important to discuss this consideration with the whole family before making a decision. While younger children may enjoy having a grandparent nearby, teenagers may not want the added responsibilities of caring for their elder. It is also important to consider your spouse’s concerns, as well as their relationship with your parent. In-laws can be challenging to get along with, especially in close quarters.
How Will This Impact My Career?
If you are already employed, taking on the role of caretaker for your elderly parent can become an added challenge. Be sure that you understand the stress that can come with caregiving. You may want to speak with your boss or HR department regarding flexibility when you may need to accompany your loved one to doctor’s visits.
Talking With Your Loved One Before Moving Them
It is important to discuss the needs and expectations of all parties before making any drastic changes. While you may think that this is the best option, you should consider their wishes as well. It is important to provide care where needed, without taking them out of their comfort zone completely.
Financial Considerations to Moving Your Loved One Into Your Home
When considering these actions, it is important to discuss finances as well. Can your loved one afford to live on their own anymore? How are their retirement savings? Can your household funds help sustain them? Can you afford home modifications for their safety or comfort? Discuss your options with your family and your parent before rushing into any decisions. You may not feel comfortable taking money from your parent for household expenses, but it may be necessary if they move in. Be sure to consider the financial ramifications of these decisions as you go forward.
Hiring Help For Your Loved One
When considering the prospect of moving your loved one in, you should also consider hiring additional care for them. Often, in-home care can allow your loved one to thrive in their own home. However, some families choose to move their loved one in and then hire care. A home health aide or in-home nurse can provide care for your loved one while you are unavailable to do so. This is a great option for those with full-time careers. If you have young children, which may also require your care and attention, hiring a home health aide to look after your parent is a good way to reduce your load. Hiring in-home care for your loved one may help you provide them with more round-the-clock care, or provide them with enough care to remain in their own home.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact us by clicking here, or call (718)-979-6900.
