Things to Consider When Moving Your Parent Out Of Their Home

If you are in the process or thinking about moving your elderly parent out of their home, weigh all choices carefully before making any decisions.   

This is a difficult transition time so it’s important to think about all the factors in your life and in their life too. In this article we will highlight things to consider in the following occasions:  

1. When moving your elderly parent into your home
2. Hiring in home care to help your elderly parent
3. Independent living
4. Assisted living
5. Nursing homes

When you are moving your elderly parent out of their home, the goal should be to find the living arrangement that best meets your elderly parent’s needs, promotes their well-being, and aligns with their preferences for their next stage of life. 

Lets dive in: 

Moving Your Elderly Parent into Your Home 

While this might appear to be the least expensive option financially, there can be hidden costs to the caregiver’s quality of life. 

• Care needs. Assess the level of care and support your elderly parents require. Consider their physical health, cognitive abilities, mobility, and any medical conditions. Determine if you have the time, resources, and ability to meet their needs adequately. 
• Nutritional needs. Make sure you are aware of the dietary restrictions your elderly parent may have when moving them out of their home. If they move in with you, you will need to have all necessary foods and supplements for them ready.  
• Family dynamic. Discuss the decision with all family members involved. Moving elderly parents into your home is a family decision that requires the commitment of everyone living in the household. 
• Home environment. Evaluate your household for accessibility and safety before moving your elderly parent into your home. Ensure the living space is suitable for elderly parents, considering mobility aids, bathroom modifications, and other necessary adjustments. Think about tile or hard wood floors and the impact that may have if your parent had an unfortunate fall. 
• Emotional Impact. Moving elderly parents into your home can be emotionally challenging for both them and you. Consider the emotional implications and be prepared for potential adjustments and changes in family dynamics. 
• Personal boundaries. Set clear boundaries to balance caregiving responsibilities and maintain your own personal health and well-being. 
• Caregiver support. Consider the need for additional caregiver support, either from extended family or professional services, to share responsibilities and avoid burnout. 
• Financial considerations. Evaluate the financial implications of providing care for elderly parents in your home. This may include additional expenses for home modifications, medical supplies, or caregiving services. 
• Community resources. Research and utilize community resources that can offer support, respite care, and services for elderly parents, even if they are living in your home. 
• Alternative living arrangements. Explore other options, such as assisted living or senior communities, which can provide professional care and social interaction for elderly parents. 
• Transportation. Remember that you will be your elderly parents’ form of transportation. This can be a heavy burden for a caregiver and could potentially take time away from work to transport your elderly parent to medical appointments. 

Let’s Debunk the 6 Common Myths about Senior Living 

Hire in-Home Care to Help Your Elderly Parent

 In-home care can be an excellent option for many seniors, as it allows them to receive personalized care in the comfort of their own homes. Here is what to consider when deciding if in-home care is right for you: 

• Individual needs. Assess the specific healthcare conditions of your elderly parents. In-home care is suitable for those who require assistance with daily activities, but do not require around-the-clock medical supervision.
• Comfort and familiarity. Aging in place, in a familiar environment, can be emotionally comforting for seniors, reducing the stress associated with moving to an unfamiliar setting.
• Independence and dignity. In-home care promotes independence, allowing seniors to maintain a sense of control over their lives and daily routines.
• Personalized care. Caregivers in an in-home setting can provide one-on-one attention and customized care tailored to the senior’s unique expectations.
• Cost. In-home care is often more cost-effective than other options, but costs can vary based on location and the level of care needed. The hourly range for this type of service is $25-$40  per hour.
• Family involvement. In-home care allows family members to be more involved in the care process while balancing their own unique lifestyle needs.

However, it’s essential to recognize that in-home care might not be the best solution for every senior. Some may require specialized medical attention or 24/7 supervision that cannot be provided at home.  

Picking a Retirement Community: One Size Doesn’t Fit All 

Moving Your Elderly Parent into Independent Living

 Independent living centers are residential communities designed for seniors who are healthy, active, mobile, and functional, but wish to downsize their living arrangements and have access to various amenities and social opportunities. Here are things to think about when considering an independent living center: 

• Level of independence. Independent living communities are suitable for seniors who can manage their daily activities but want a supportive community and access to onsite services. 
• Social interaction. These communities offer numerous opportunities for socializing and participating in group activities, which can help combat loneliness and improve overall well-being. 
• Amenities and services. Independent living communities often provide services like transportation, housekeeping, meal preparation, and recreational activities, which can make daily life more comfortable and convenient. 
• Security and safety. These communities are designed with security measures and safety features, which can offer peace of mind to both seniors and their families. 
• Health status. Consider your elderly parent’s current health status. If they have medical needs that require regular attention or 24/7 care, an independent living community is not the best fit. 
• Financial considerations. Evaluate the cost of living in an independent living community, as well as your parent’s financial resources, and any available financial assistance or benefits. 
• Parent’s wishes. Involve your parent in the decision-making process, as their preferences and desires should be considered. Some seniors may be excited about the idea of moving to a community with social opportunities, while others may prefer to stay in their current home. 
• Location. Consider the location of the independent living community and its proximity to family members, medical facilities, and other important resources.
   

Find a community now 

It’s important to visit the independent living communities you are considering, and speak with staff and residents, to get a sense of the atmosphere and the available services. Additionally, consulting with your parent’s healthcare provider or a geriatric care manager can provide valuable insights and guidance in making the best decision. 

RELATED: Finding the Perfect Assisted Living Community to Fit Your Lifestyle 

Moving Your Elderly Parent into Assisted living 

Assisted living can be an excellent option for some seniors, but it may not be well suited for others. Here’s what you need to think about: 

• Health and care needs. Assess your parent’s overall medical condition. Assisted living is suitable for seniors who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meals, but do not require 24/7 medical care. 
• Safety and supervision. If your parent has safety concerns, memory issues, or requires more supervision than can  not be provided at home, an assisted living facility may offer a safer environment.  
• Social interaction. Assisted living communities provide opportunities for socialization and engagement with peers, which can be beneficial for seniors’ mental and emotional well-being. 
• Family involvement. Assisted living communities can provide professional care while still allowing family members to participate in their loved one’s life. If you or other family members have been providing care, an assisted living community may provide a much-needed respite from burnout. 
• Financial considerations. Evaluate the cost of assisted living and whether it aligns with your senior’s financial resources, as well as any available financial assistance or benefits.  

The best option for your elderly parent is one that meets their individual needs, promotes their well-being, and aligns with their desires and preferences for this stage of life. 

Moving Your Elderly Parent into a Nursing Home 

Deciding whether your elderly parent should go to a nursing home is a significant and often challenging decision. Here are some indicators that may suggest it’s time to consider a nursing home: 

• Medical needs. If your elderly parent requires specialized medical care, frequent monitoring, or assistance with complex medical conditions, a nursing home with skilled nursing staff is the most appropriate care option. 
• Safety concerns. If your parent’s home environment poses safety risks due to reduced mobility, cognitive functions, or overall health, a nursing home will offer a safer and more controlled setting. 
• Chronic conditions. If your parent has chronic health conditions that require ongoing care management, a nursing home will be best equipped to handle their complex needs. 
• Decline in independence. If your parent’s ability to perform daily activities has significantly declined, and they require extensive assistance with personal care, nursing home care may be necessary. 
• Frequent hospitalizations. If your parent has been in and out of the hospital regularly, a nursing home can provide a more structured environment with access to immediate medical attention if complications arise. 
• Cognitive decline. If your parent has severe cognitive decline, such as advanced Alzheimer’s or dementia, a nursing home with memory care services may be best suited to their needs. 
• Lack of social support. If your parent is isolated and lacks outside engagement, a nursing home can provide opportunities for regular interaction and ongoing companionship. 
• Wandering or elopement behaviors. If your elderly parent has exhibited wandering or eloping habits, a nursing home with appropriate security measures can reduce stress for family members and the risk of harm for your loved one. 

 When considering a nursing home, visit several facilities to assess the quality of care, staff-to-resident ratio, cleanliness, and overall atmosphere. Speak with staff, residents, and their families to gain insights into the level of care and services provided. 

The goal should be to find the living arrangement that best meets your elderly parent’s needs, promotes their well-being, and aligns with their preferences for their next stage of life. 

Seeking the best senior living possible for your elderly parent?  Visit our website to learn more about the Oakmont experience.