Probably one of the most noble and admirable decisions adult children will make is to open up their house to an aging parent. Our parents raised and took care of us when we needed assistance, so it seems like a no-brainer to reciprocate when it becomes unsafe for Mom or Dad to live alone. But there are a number of factors to consider before you take this step. Independence-4-Seniors Home Care outlines a number of the key questions to think about:
Is there sufficient space? If setting up a room for Mom can lead to shuffling the kids’ accommodations, doubling up siblings to share a space or causing a person to sleep on the sofa, it is important to weigh this disruption against the value to the senior loved one.
Are home modifications necessary? Walk through the home and try to see it through the point of view of a senior. Are pathways clear between the senior’s room, bathroom, kitchen area, etc.? Are there any sort of trip and fall dangers, such as throw rugs? Should you install grab bars, an elevated toilet seat, or other home health-related equipment? Are there stairs to maneuver? Is the home wheelchair-accessible?
Will someone be at home each day? Isolation and the dangers of being left alone will still be a concern in the event that you and your spouse are working outside the home.
Is everyone completely agreeable with the plan? While you may be totally invested in your senior parent’s new living arrangements, feelings of hesitancy or resentment on the part of your spouse can create pressure and relationship issues.
Are you ready to manage increasing care needs?While Dad may need just a little additional help now, disease progression and the normal frailties associated with aging will change the amount of care needed with time. Think about such potential challenges as incontinence, bathing difficulties, wandering, and falls.
Another factor is the affect that giving up status as “head of the household” will have for some seniors. It will require some prior thoughtful planning to determine the best way to help the senior maintain self-esteem, autonomy and a sense of control.
If you’re feeling unsure about your ability to care for your elderly loved one, another option may be better suited to both the senior and your family. One option to take a look at could be the addition of an in-home care provider, like Hinsdale IL in-home care provider, Independence-4-Seniors Home Care. Our professional caregivers partner with families who are moving a senior into their home to ensure your loved one stays safe and thrives – whether that involves just a couple of hours each week of companionship to encourage socialization, personal care support for safe bathing and dressing, help with household chores and meal preparation, or round the clock, live-in care. We provide a free in-home consultation to find out about your loved one and to recommend a strategy of care to address all concerns. Call us to find out more.