Parent's Health Decline Might Mean Moving Them into Your Home - What to Do When the Crisis Arises

Moving your elderly parents into your home is a big decision and becomes more complicated if they need to be cared for or if they are entirely independent. It is easier if they are independent, although even that will change the family dynamic and will require discussion with your spouse and children before a decision is made. 

However, if your parent needs help with daily activities or is suffering from dementia, the role of being a caregiver becomes a greater burden for everyone in the family, and everyone will need to be prepared.

All too often, the decision to move a parent (or both parents) into your home is made due to a crisis with your parent's health. Perhaps there was a fall, health problem, or dementia that makes it unsafe for them to live alone. If you find yourself in that type of crisis, these tips will make it easier for everyone.

Prioritize Safety

Safety should be your top priority when moving your elderly parents into your home. You'll likely need to make several modifications to your house so that it's functional for everyone. These modifications include installing grab bars in the bathroom, widening doorways to accommodate wheelchairs, and adding anti-slip mats under your rugs. Doing so will help your relatives feel comfortable and prevent serious injuries, especially falls, one of the most significant risks for an older person.

Consider Finances

Even though you won't be paying for a second residence, bills can pile up quickly when your senior family members move in. Modifying your home costs money, and having more people living in one place means higher grocery and utility bills. How much is everyone capable of contributing? Make sure you've considered finances and discussed expectations.

Check to see if your parent owns Long-Term Care Insurance. If so, the policy can pay for in-home care to help out while you and your spouse are at work. Some policies offer money to pay for home modifications and medical alter systems. 

If your parents have little or no income and assets, they may be able to take advantage of local or county services, including adult day care.

Respect Privacy

Taking on your parents' in-home care will result in lifestyle changes for everyone involved. There are likely common areas that you'll need to learn how to share. Make this transition easier by creating space for everyone to have privacy. 

Make sure there's a bedroom for your older parents to relax in when they need some time for themselves. Doing so will help them maintain a sense of autonomy that will help them thrive in their new environment.

Have a family discussion about the changes in your home. Your children, if they are still living at home, will need to make adjustments as well. 

Enlist Help

Becoming a caregiver is a huge undertaking, and burnout can develop quickly in your new role. Caregiving is tough - physically and mentally. Understand that it's okay to ask for help when you need it. 

Getting help can mean many things, including joining a support group or hiring in-home assistance. You can't afford to skimp on your parent's care when they're in a fragile state. So figure out what level of care they'll need and enlist in aid that will give you peace of mind.

If you need to find a quality in-home caregiver, this guide can be helpful - Finding Quality In-Home Care | LTC News. Professional case management can be beneficial in getting a plan of care in place and finding quality care options to bring into your home or for adult day care during the day. LTC NEWS can help - click here.

Being Prepared 

The best way to ensure a healthy transition is to prepare as much as possible. Developing a plan will help guide you and your family members through this process in a way that's helpful for everyone. Unfortunately, you often don't have the time to plan before the crisis.

Please discuss with your parents the issue of long-term care when they are younger and still enjoy relatively good health. If they have savings, your parents should consider Long-Term Care Insurance. While most people purchase LTC Insurance in their 50s, plans are available for people well into their 70s and beyond.

Help them seek professional guidance from an experienced Long-Term Care Insurance specialist. There are too many variables, including underwriting differences between companies, so most financial advisors or general insurance agents are not helpful and could be detrimental in the process.

Find a qualified specialist by clicking here.

Finally, understand that conflict within the family can be expected, especially without an advance plan. Reducing friction by planning is ideal. However, when the need arises, someone needs to step forward. If that is you, do your best to consider the needs of your family, your parents, and your siblings.