Parent's Health Decline Might Mean Moving Them into Your Home - What to Do When the Crisis Arises
Ideally, your mom and dad will remain healthy and independent. But many people will need some help with daily activities or require supervision due to dementia. There are things to consider when it's time to move mom or dad into your home.
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.
About the Author
Mallory Knee is a freelance writer for multiple online publications where she can showcase her affinity for all things beauty and fashion. She particularly enjoys writing for communities of passionate women who come together for a shared interest and empower one another in the process. In her free time, you can find Mallory trying a fun new dinner recipe, practicing calligraphy, or hanging out with her family.
Mallory Knee
Contributor since September 25th, 2020
Editor's Note
Long-Term Care Insurance is an affordable way to address the costs and burdens of aging and changing health. You will have guaranteed tax-free resources to pay for the high care costs in any setting you wish, including care at home. Your loved ones will have the time to be family instead of caregivers.
Most people obtain coverage in their 50s. However, some options are affordable for those in their 60s and beyond. Remember, Long-Term Care Insurance is medically underwritten, so you need to act before you have significant changes in your health and mobility.
If you have yet to plan for your longevity, better take care of your planning now as well. Several types of Long-Term Care Insurance options are available, and one should fit your needs.
Seek Professional Guidance
Insurance rates are regulated, so no insurance agent, agency, or financial advisor can give you special deals. However, premiums do vary over 100% between insurance companies for the same coverage.
Experts suggest using a qualified Long-Term Care Insurance specialist to help you navigate the many options available to you and your family.
A specialist who works with the top companies can match your age, health, family history, and other factors and find you the best coverage at the best value. A specialist will save you money, and you will have peace of mind knowing they are making the appropriate recommendations - Work With a Specialist | LTC News.
Planning Tools and Resources on LTC NEWS
You can find many tools and resources on LTC NEWS to assist you in your research for a planning solution or help your family find the appropriate care for a loved one at the time of crisis.
To help you plan for the future costs and burdens of changing health and aging, LTC NEWS has put in place several resources, including:
- The Ultimate Long-Term Care Guide is an outstanding read to help you get a good overview of the topic area.
- Compare the major insurance companies that offer Long-Term Care Insurance products here - Top Insurers for Long-Term Care Insurance | LTC News.
- A detailed tax guide that includes available tax incentives can be found by reviewing the Long-Term Care Tax Benefits Guide.
Find all the resources on LTC NEWS - Resources for Long-Term Care Planning | LTC News.
Find Quality Caregivers and Long-Term Care Facilities
If your parent or loved one needs care now - or soon - you will need to find the appropriate care in the right setting depending on their needs.
Take a moment and read -
Benefits of Reverse Mortgages
Today's reverse mortgages for those aged 62 and older could be an ideal resource to fund a Long-Term Care Insurance policy OR even provide money to pay for care if you, or a loved one, already needs help and assistance.
Some people have much of their savings invested in their homes. With today's reverse mortgages, you can find ways to fund care solutions, care itself, even help with cash flow during your retirement.
Learn more by asking questions to an expert. LTC NEWS columnist and host of the TV Show "62 Who Knew" will answer your questions regarding caregiving, aging, health, retirement planning, long-term care, and reverse mortgages.
- Just "Ask Mike." - Reverse Mortgages | LTC News.
Find Quality Caregivers and Long-Term Care Facilities
If your parent or loved one needs care now - or soon - you will need to find the appropriate care in the right setting depending on their needs.
Take a moment and read -
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