Caregiving for your parents as they age will likely be a necessary task at some point in your lives. According to the Home Care Association of America, more than 70% of seniors will require assistance in daily living activities as they get older.
It is up to you to decide whether your elderly parents should be cared for at home or in another location. Many seniors who need care live at home.
You are the senior parent caregiver and must make a hard decision. Is it the right decision to move your elderly parent/parents in with you? If you are having an elderly parent move in, there are pros and cons. You should also consider other options.
Moving your aging parents in
Moving your elderly parents into your home is a positive experience. These are the top reasons to move your parents into your home:
You and They Will Save Money
Moving your parents into your home with their elderly parents is easier if you don’t have to spend too much on long-term care. Moving your parents into your home may require some modifications, such as safety bars and ramps in the bathrooms.
A Loved One Will Take Care of them
It can be helpful to move a parent into your house. It can help to have someone familiar around when you are dealing with elderly parents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
They Will Be in Familiar Surroundings
A familiar face and a comfortable environment can make the transition easier. Mom and Dad may feel more at home if they have a special place to call their own.
You Can Be Helpful
It can be difficult to watch your parent age. You can help your elderly parent by living with you.
Spend time with your parents
Your parents should live a happy, long life. You can’t predict the future so it is important to spend as much time as you possibly can with your parents. This will allow you to make lasting memories together if you have them as your guests.
Moving your elderly parents in
Of course, there are downsides to allowing your parents to live in your home. Your life and theirs will be disrupted. These are just a few of the things that you need to be aware of.
There is a loss of privacy and independence
This is true for your parents but also for you. It can be difficult to have someone else in your home at all times, whether they are parents or not. You will also be restricted in your freedom as you won’t have the ability to leave or return without considering their needs.
You may need to make expensive modifications
To keep your parent safe, you may need ramps, grab bars for bathtubs, grab bars in the bathtub, and elevator chairs. Your living arrangements may dictate that you might need to remodel a bedroom or the entire house.
Increased Health Risks
We all know that older adults are more susceptible to illness than younger ones, not only from COVID-19. You and your family should be aware of colds, flu, and other illnesses so you can stay healthy.
Additional Stress
It can be difficult to look after a parent. You may also have to balance work and family. When taking care of a parent, you’ll need to make sure that you take care of yourself.
Parents may be troublesome
Seniors may experience a decline in their ability to do daily tasks and possibly the onset of dementia. They may become more difficult to handle or satisfy, and can even become angry. Professional caregivers might be able to help with these problems.
Increased Responsibilities
You may be responsible for financial decisions and long-term care, in addition to housing and personal care, if you are the power of attorney for your parents. It is possible that you will need to take over. This should be considered when making your decision.
Alternatives to Moving Aging Parents in
It is not an either/or choice to move your parent(s). You don’t have to make the task of caring for your parents too difficult. There are other options than taking care of your parents alone.
Assisted Living Communities
There are many benefits to assisted living communities that have been specifically designed for older adults. These are just a few of the reasons assisted living communities may be an option that you should consider:
- Alzheimer’s & Dementia Specific: Senior care communities may offer programs that are specifically tailored for people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. It is designed to provide a fulfilling, enriching lifestyle for people with dementia.
- A Community of the Same Age: An aging parent can find comfort in having other adults with similar passions and interests.
- Professional Healthcare: Even with your best intentions, the care that you give to an elderly parent will not be of the highest quality. Your parent can benefit greatly from the expertise of professionals in older adult health care.
- Security and Safety: Senior living communities are intended to provide security and safety for older adults. This includes those who are prone to falling or wandering off.
- A Variety of Activities: Seniors living in assited living communities will have plenty of activities, including exercise, art classes, and scheduled get-togethers.
Making your final decision
You should thoroughly research all options before making a decision about whether you want to move your parents in, in-home care, or to move them into a senior living facility.
Grande Cypress provides tranquil living at its best. Located on beautiful Jewel Lake, this gorgeous 35 bed Circle of Life Community features three sizes of private or semi-private suites. Eight rooms come furnished with kitchenettes and all rooms furnished with a mini-refrigerator/microwave combo. Come say hello to home. Call us today for more information or to schedule a tour.
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