When you are searching for housing solutions for a senior whose health is declining, families often consider inviting them to move in. Fewer trips back and forth to their home, and peace of mind they are safe are often reasons it seems like a good idea. While it works for some families, others aren’t as successful.
Before you put the senior’s house up for sale and hire a moving company, give careful consideration to what this change really means. Here are a few factors to pay special attention to before taking the plunge.
4 Issues to Consider Before an Aging Parent Moves In
1. Will your family member be safer?
It’s understandable to think your parent will be safer under your roof than on their own. But will they really? Be honest with yourself about how safe your house is and how often you are at home.
Do your career and personal responsibilities keep you away from home for long hours? Will someone else be available to provide assistance to your loved one?
Is your home senior-friendly or can it be easily modified for senior safety? Stairs and inaccessible bathrooms can be especially hazardous for older adults.
There are a number of home remodelers who specialize in modifying homes to make them safer for seniors. Some take the extra step to become a certified aging-in-place specialist. From modifying bathrooms to make them more accessible to widening doorways and adding better lighting, you can make changes that will keep your parent safe. The catch is that these modifications often come at a high financial cost.
2. Are other members of the household on board with this choice?
The idea of having your parent safely ensconced in your home can be a relief to you, but how does everyone else in the family feel about it? This will be a big change that likely requires everyone to compromise and adjust. Are your family’s interpersonal relationships strong enough to make this work? The last thing you want is to cause irreparable damage among family members.
3. Are you willing to give up much of your privacy?
Unless you have separate living accommodations, such as an in-law suite, moving a parent in means a lot of close contact. The resulting loss of privacy can be difficult for couples, the grandkids, and for the senior.
Think through how you will handle this issue and if you have options for ensuring everyone has their own space and privacy.
4. Is this really the best solution for your parent?
Inviting a parent to stay with you on a short-term basis, such as when they are recovering from surgery or grieving the loss of a spouse, might be a good solution. But is it the best option for them over the long run? Will their quality of life improve or suffer?
An older adult might prefer the social opportunities, wellness programs, and friendships that are a part of everyday life in an assisted living community. This type of senior living combines the best of two worlds—the independence of having your own apartment with the peace of mind that available support is nearby around the clock.
Assisted Living at Five Star
If you would like to learn more about assisted living, and how it allows older adults to live their best quality of life, we invite you to stop by for a tour. With more than 270 communities across the country, we’re likely a short drive from your neighborhood.
Call the Five Star Senior Living community nearest you today!