Moving an Elderly Parent into your Home

Author

Griswold Home Care

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Griswold Home Care

Posted on

Sep 03, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

share-this
Share This

As our parents age, it's common for their role to change from a caregiver to someone who requires care. In situations where a parent is no longer able to live independently, it may be necessary for them to move in with their child. As the child in this scenario, this decision can be a difficult one to make, as it involves a significant shift in family dynamics and a change in lifestyle for both parties. In this blog, we'll discuss what you need to know about bringing an elderly parent into your home and providing care for them as they age.

Should Your Aging Parents Live With You?

If you're contemplating the decision to move your elderly parents or loved ones into your home, it's important to approach it with careful consideration. You often hear people say, “I promised her I’d never put her in a nursing home.” or, “Dad told me he never wanted to live in one of those places.” As long as the situation is safe for everyone involved, keeping aging parents at home is a wonderful thing to do. However, there are multiple factors that should be taken into account before making any final decisions. By taking the time to explore these questions thoroughly and any other concerns that may arise, you will be better prepared to make an informed decision that benefits everyone involved.

  1. Do your parents have needs that require extra care? Before your parent(s) move into your home, it's important to determine the level of support they need and what you can provide. This means being honest about your own abilities and limitations and considering the resources available to you.
  2. Do you get along with the parent? If you were at odds with your parent while growing up, your differences will not change dramatically. However, if you were always able to settle a conflict, that relationship should continue amicably.
  3. Do your children and spouse get along with the parent? Furthermore, will they be able to adjust to a new person living in the house?
  4. Will your parent be able to live by the rules of the house? Dynamics are shifting, which means your parent will have to follow YOUR rules now. Will they be able to make that adjustment, including adjusting their levels of independence?
  5. What will your loved one do when you're not there? When you or your spouse are working, and your children are at school, your parent may feel lonely. It's important to prevent isolation for their overall well-being. There are various options to consider, such as adult day care, companion care services, volunteering, and more.

Can You Afford to Take Care of Your Parent?

While it is natural to have deep feelings of love and respect for our parents, it is also important to be realistic about the financial impact their care may have on our households. According to AARP’s 2021 Caregiving Out-of-Pocket Costs Study, annual costs for caregiving tasks or supplies for an aging parent, average more than $7,200 per year. So what choices do you have? Here are some financial factors to consider with an elderly parent moving in:

  • Start by making it a team effort. Talk to siblings and the parent, themselves, about budgeting and expenses. Open communication and transparency will be key to establishing a successful financial strategy for the household.

  • Get advice from an expert. Living with children for free may affect the eligibility of elderly individuals for Medicaid or full social security benefits, as these benefits are based on income and expenses. An attorney or a social security representative can help you determine how much your parent should pay to keep their benefits.

  • Consider charging rent to elderly parents. To determine how much to charge, figure out how much a room would cost in a senior care facility and then factor in expenses such as groceries. Remember to work together and come to an agreement on a rate that's balanced and fair for everyone involved!

  • Claim your parent as dependents when filing taxes. Claiming a dependent can possibly offer tax deductions and ease your financial burden. However, it is crucial to ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria and rules before proceeding with any decisions.

Five Tips for Preparing Your Home for Elderly Parents

Preparing your home for elderly parents can be overwhelming. However, it is essential to make appropriate house adjustments to ensure their new living arrangements are comfortable, convenient, and peaceful. Here are a few things you can do when preparing a space for elderly family members in your home:

  1. Make Your Safe and Accessible: Ensure that your home is safe and accessible for your elderly parent. Remove tripping hazards, install handrails in key areas like stairs and bathrooms, and make sure pathways are clear. Consider modifications like a walk-in shower, grab bars, and a ramp if necessary. Arrange furniture to accommodate mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs.

  2. Address Health and Medical Needs: Consult with your parent's healthcare professionals to understand their specific medical needs and any required assistance with medications or treatments. Set up a dedicated area for medication management and keep a record of their medical history, appointments, and prescriptions. If necessary, enlist the help of a home healthcare professional or nurse to assist with medical care.

  3. Develop a Daily Routine: Establish a daily routine that considers your parent's needs and preferences. A structured schedule can provide stability and reduce stress for both of you. Include time for meals, exercise, social interactions, and rest. Be flexible and make adjustments as needed, considering their health and abilities.

  4. Seek Support and Education: Caring for an elderly parent can be emotionally and physically demanding. Look for local support groups or online communities where you can connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Consider attending workshops or seminars to learn about caregiving techniques, resources, and coping strategies.

  5. Set Boundaries and Communicate Openly: Communication is vital in any caregiving situation. Discuss expectations, boundaries, and roles with your parent and other family members involved in the caregiving process. Be open about your feelings, concerns, and limitations. Remember that self-care is crucial! Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed and take breaks to recharge.

    DOWNLOAD OUR FREE 10 HOME SAFETY TIPS FOR SENIORS

Other Articles You May Like

When Going Home Isnt the Next Step: Guide for Monmouth & Ocean Cty

When Going Home Isnt the Next Step: A Guide for Monmouth & Ocean County FamiliesWhen an older loved one needs more support, families in Monmouth and Ocean Counties often find themselves navigating unfamiliar territory. A hospital discharge may lead to rehabilitation. A fall may reveal that living alone is no longer safe. Or a family caregiver may realize that managing medications, meals, personal care, and medical appointments has become too much to handle alone.The good news is that senior care isn't one-size-fits-all. Depending on a person's needs, there are options ranging from short-term rehabilitation to assisted living and long-term skilled nursing care.For families across the Jersey Shore, Complete Care provides a continuum of senior care services through multiple communities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, including locations in Holmdel, Long Branch, Ocean Grove, Wall, Shrewsbury, Toms River, and Brick.Understanding the Right Level of CareOne of the most important steps in choosing senior care is understanding what type of support a loved one actually needs.Post-Acute RehabilitationAfter a hospitalization, surgery, stroke, illness, or injury, an older adult may not be ready to return home immediately. Post-acute rehabilitation provides a bridge between the hospital and home, helping individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence.Depending on the location and individual needs, Complete Care provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy along with nursing and clinical support.For families in Toms River, Brick, Wall, and surrounding communities, having rehabilitation options nearby can make it easier for family members to remain involved during recovery.Skilled NursingSome individuals need more than therapy. Skilled nursing may be appropriate for people who require ongoing medical monitoring, wound care, medication management, chronic disease management, or other specialized clinical services.Complete Care communities offer a variety of clinical programs, with services differing by location. These may include orthopedic and postsurgical care, cardiac care, wound care, neurological and stroke care, pulmonary care, and memory care.When comparing skilled nursing communities, families should ask specifically about the clinical services available at each location.Assisted LivingAssisted living can be a good option for older adults who need help with daily activities but still want to maintain as much independence as possible.Support may include assistance with bathing, dressing, medications, meals, and other everyday routines, along with opportunities for social engagement and activities.For families in Holmdel, Middletown, Red Bank, Freehold, and neighboring Monmouth County communities, assisted living can offer an alternative to managing increasing care needs at home.Long-Term CareFor some seniors, rehabilitation is only one step in a longer care journey. Chronic illness, cognitive impairment, disability, or increasing difficulty with daily activities may eventually require ongoing nursing support.Long-term care provides assistance around the clock while also addressing the social and emotional needs that contribute to quality of life.A Local Presence MattersFor families choosing senior care, location can be an important consideration.Being close to home makes it easier for spouses, children, grandchildren, and friends to visit regularly and remain involved in care. That's particularly meaningful in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, where families may live in neighboring communities but still want their loved one to remain close to their established support system.Complete Care has a broad local presence, with communities serving residents throughout the region. Its Monmouth County locations include communities in Holmdel, Long Branch, Ocean Grove, Wall Township, and Shrewsbury. Ocean County options include multiple communities in Toms River and Brick Township.Because services vary by location, families should contact the individual community to determine which level of care and specialized programs are available.What Should Families Look For?Whether you're looking for assisted living in Monmouth County, skilled nursing in Ocean County, or rehabilitation following a hospital stay, consider more than just the building.Ask: What level of care does my loved one need today? What happens if their needs change? What rehabilitation and therapy services are available? Does the community offer specialized clinical care? How involved can family members be in the care plan? What activities and social opportunities are available? How close is the community to family? And whenever possible, visit in person.Notice how staff interact with residents. Ask questions. Talk with the admissions and care teams. Pay attention to whether residents appear engaged and comfortable.These observations can help families understand what daily life may actually feel like for their loved one.Planning Before a CrisisMany families begin researching senior care only after a crisisa fall, hospitalization, diagnosis, or caregiver burnout.Planning ahead can provide more choices and less pressure.Even if your loved one isn't ready for assisted living or long-term care today, learning about senior care communities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties can help your family understand what resources are available if circumstances change.Having these conversations early also gives older adults an opportunity to participate in decisions about their own future.Complete Care in Monmouth & Ocean CountiesFor families looking for assisted living, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, or long-term care in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, Complete Care offers multiple local communities and a range of care services.The right choice will depend on your loved one's medical needs, level of independence, preferences, and family circumstances. Taking the time to understand those needsand exploring local options before a crisis occurscan make the process easier for everyone.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat types of care does Complete Care provide?Complete Care offers assisted living, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and long-term care. Specific services and clinical programs vary by location.Where does Complete Care serve Monmouth County?Complete Care has communities in areas including Holmdel, Long Branch, Ocean Grove, Wall Township, and Shrewsbury.Where does Complete Care serve Ocean County?Complete Care has multiple communities in Toms River and Brick Township, among other nearby locations.What is post-acute rehabilitation?Post-acute rehabilitation helps individuals recover after hospitalization, surgery, illness, or injury. Therapy and nursing services are designed to help patients regain function and return home safely when possible.If you're researching senior care options in Monmouth or Ocean County, NJ, visit Complete Care's Seniors Blue Book listing for more information about available services and local care options.  

When Care Needs Change, Starting Over Shouldn't Be Necessary

Aging rarely follows a predictable path.  Learn how CareAparent helps Minnesota seniors remain at home with personal care, skilled nursing, therapy and support that evolves as care needs change.One month, an older adult may be living completely independently. Later, they may need a little help around the house, assistance after a hospital stay, physical therapy to regain strength, medication management or more advanced nursing support.For families, each change can bring another round of questions.Who should we call? What kind of care does Mom need now? Will we need to find another provider? Who will coordinate everything?Those questions can become especially stressful when a family is already dealing with a hospitalization, illness or sudden change in a loved one's abilities.That's why having a care provider that can adapt as needs change can make such a difference.For more than 10 years, CareAparent has helped Minnesota seniors and their families receive personalized care in the place many older adults most want to remaintheir own home. Today, CareAparent provides a continuum of in-home services throughout the seven-county Twin Cities metro area. CareAparentIt May Start With Just a Little HelpSometimes the first sign that an aging parent needs assistance is subtle.Maybe Dad isn't keeping up with housekeeping like he once did. Mom may be having difficulty getting dressed or safely taking a shower. Meals aren't being prepared regularly, medications are becoming confusing, or an adult child is spending more and more time helping with everyday tasks.That doesn't necessarily mean an older adult can no longer live independently.The right support can help make independence possible for longer.CareAparent provides personal care that can include assistance with bathing, dressing and grooming, as well as light housekeeping, laundry and medication reminders. Care can be customized based on the individual's needs rather than forcing the person into a predetermined schedule or level of service. CareAparentFor families, that flexibility matters.The goal isn't to take over someone's life. It's to provide enough assistance so the person can continue participating in it.Then Something ChangesA fall occurs.There's a hospital stay.A chronic condition becomes more difficult to manage.An older adult needs help recovering from surgery.Suddenly, the type of support that worked six months ago may no longer be enough.This is where continuity of care becomes particularly important.Instead of requiring a family to begin searching for an entirely different organization, CareAparent can provide skilled services through licensed medical professionals, including skilled nursing, medication management, wound care, physical therapy and occupational therapy. CareAparentThat allows care to evolve along with the person.Coming Home From the Hospital Can Be a Vulnerable TimeDischarge day can feel like a victoryand it is.But getting home doesn't necessarily mean the recovery is finished.There may be new medications to manage, mobility limitations, wounds requiring attention, exercises to complete or everyday activities that suddenly feel more difficult.Family members may receive discharge instructions but still wonder how they're going to manage everything once their loved one gets home.CareAparent specifically works with individuals transitioning home from hospitals, rehabilitation centers and other acute-care settings. Its skilled services are designed to support recovery and continuity of care in the home. CareAparentFor an older adult, recovering in familiar surroundings can also mean sleeping in their own bed, following familiar routines and remaining close to the people and things that bring comfort.Therapy Can Help Restore IndependencePhysical and occupational therapy aren't simply about completing exercises.They can be important tools for maintaining independence.Physical therapists can work with older adults experiencing pain, injury, illness or age-related declines in mobility. Treatment can address strength, balance, endurance and safer movement.Occupational therapists look at everyday functionhelping individuals find safer and more effective ways to accomplish the activities that are important in daily life.Together, those services can help an older adult work toward a very meaningful goal:Doing more for themselves. CareAparentFamilies Need Support TooWhen someone needs care, the impact extends beyond that individual.Spouses and adult children frequently become caregivers themselvescoordinating appointments, checking medications, helping with meals, managing household responsibilities and worrying about what happens when they aren't there.Over time, those responsibilities can become overwhelming.Professional in-home care can provide something important for both generations.The older adult receives personalized assistance.The family gets to spend more time being family.That distinction matters.A daughter shouldn't always have to be the nurse, housekeeper or care coordinator. A spouse shouldn't have to handle every caregiving responsibility alone.Having trusted support can make the entire family's situation more manageable.Specialized Support for Minnesota VeteransVeterans and their families may also have access to services they don't realize are available.CareAparent serves veterans throughout the seven-county Twin Cities metro as a Home Health Community Provider. Depending upon eligibility and authorization, VA-supported services can include skilled nursing, therapy, respite care, homemaking and home health aide assistance. CareAparentFor families of veterans, understanding available benefits can be an important part of developing a long-term care plan.One Relationship as Needs EvolvePerhaps one of the most reassuring things a family can hear is:You don't have to figure out the next step alone.CareAparent's model is designed around continuity. Personal care, skilled nursing, therapy and additional support can work together so that when circumstances change, the care plan can change too. CareAparentThat can mean fewer unfamiliar faces, fewer transitions between organizations and less time for families spent searching for the next provider.Instead, there is one relationship and a care team that already understands the individual.Aging at Home Should Still Feel Like HomeUltimately, home care isn't simply about completing tasks.It's about helping someone continue living a life that feels familiar and meaningful.It's having coffee in your own kitchen.Sleeping in your own bed.Seeing neighbors you recognize.Following your own schedule.Having family visit without visiting hours.And continuing to make choices about how you live your day.CareAparent describes its approach as combining clinical care with hospitality and personalized attention. The organization has served Minnesota families for more than a decade and provides care throughout Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott and Washington counties. CareAparentAs needs change, the answer doesn't always have to be changing where someone lives.Sometimes, the answer is bringing the right care to where they already call home.   Learn more about CareAparent's personalized in-home care services and find resources to help your family navigate changing care needs.  Call us at 651-702-HOME (4663) or visit our website at www.careaparent.com

7 Signs of Caregiver Burnout & How Sarasota Respite Care Helps

Caring for a parent or spouse is an act of love. It's also one of the hardest jobs there is. Family caregivers often put their own needs last for months or even years, until their health, relationships, and patience start to wear thin. That's caregiver burnout, and it's far more common than most people admit.Recognizing the signs early can protect both you and the person you care for.7 Warning Signs of Caregiver Burnout1. You're exhausted even after sleeping. Constant vigilance, especially with dementia, can leave you tired no matter how much rest you get.2. You've stopped seeing friends. Social plans feel impossible, so you've quietly let them go.3. You feel irritable or resentful. Snapping at your loved one, then feeling guilty about it, is a classic sign of stress overload.4. Your own health is slipping. Missed checkups, poor eating, new aches, or getting sick more often.5. You feel hopeless or numb. Sadness that doesn't lift, or feeling detached from things you used to enjoy.6. You can't concentrate. Forgetting your own appointments or struggling to focus at work.7. You believe no one else can do it. Feeling that you alone must provide every moment of care is often a sign you need help most.If several of these sound familiar, it's time to build some support into your week. If you ever feel you can't go on, please talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.What Is Respite Care?Respite care is short-term relief for family caregivers. It can mean a few hours of in-home help, a short stay in a residential community, or, for many families, a regular schedule at an adult day center.Adult day care is one of the most practical forms of respite because it's consistent. You know that on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, for example, your loved one is safe, fed, engaged, and cared for, and you can plan your life around that.Respite and Caregiver Support at Town Square University ParkwayTown Square University Parkway in Sarasota was built to support the whole family. While members enjoy activities, meals, and social time across 15 nostalgic storefronts, caregivers get dependable time to work, rest, or simply breathe.The center also serves as a community resource for caregivers in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Bradenton:Free assessments to help you understand your loved one's physical, cognitive, and emotional health.Weekly caregiver support groups where you can talk with people who truly understand.Monthly educational classes on topics that help you care with more confidence.Free respite during these events, so you can attend without worrying about who's watching your loved one.Caring for Yourself Is Part of Caring for ThemTaking a break isn't giving up. It's what allows you to keep going. Caregivers who get regular respite are often able to keep their loved ones at home longer, with more patience and energy. If you're feeling stretched thin, reach out to Town Square University Parkway to learn about respite options and upcoming support groups.About Town Square University ParkwayTown Square University Parkway is an adult day center serving families in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, and throughout Manatee County. It offers a nostalgic setting, purposeful programming, nursing oversight, on-site medical services, and free caregiver support. Call today to schedule a tour or a free assessment.Town Square University Parkway8450 Lockwood Ridge Road, Unit 55, Sarasota, FL 34243Phone: 941-277-5048Web: seniorsbluebook.com/senior-resources/town-square-university-parkway

Local Services By This Author

Griswold Care Pairing

Non-Medical 9200 BONITA BEACH RD SE, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34135

Griswold is More Than Home Care. Its Peace of Mind.Griswold offers compassionate in-home care for those who want support to live where they love. With over four decades of experience and a storied legacy of compassion and integrity, we focus on the people we meet and the connections we make. It is our privilege to support your unique needs with respect, empathy, and dedicated attention so you can Live Assured, without the weight of worry.Griswold is an award-winning pioneer in the non-medical home care industry. We believe Care Professionals are the foundation of our success, and our commitment to innovation is based on our desire to improve the lives of everyone we touch in the communities we serve. We focus on personal care, homemaking, companionship, and support for those with conditions, illnesses, or injuries.With almost 200 locations in 32 states, Griswolds reach continues to grow. While each location benefits from the collective expertise of the national network, our deep local community ties are what make us special.

Griswold Care Pairing

Home Health 9200 Bonita Beach Road Southeast, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34135

Griswold is More Than Home Care. Its Peace of Mind.Griswold offers compassionate in-home care for those who want support to live where they love. With over four decades of experience and a storied legacy of compassion and integrity, we focus on the people we meet and the connections we make. It is our privilege to support your unique needs with respect, empathy, and dedicated attention so you can Live Assured, without the weight of worry.Griswold is an award-winning pioneer in the non-medical home care industry. We believe Care Professionals are the foundation of our success, and our commitment to innovation is based on our desire to improve the lives of everyone we touch in the communities we serve. We focus on personal care, homemaking, companionship, and support for those with conditions, illnesses, or injuries.With almost 200 locations in 32 states, Griswolds reach continues to grow. While each location benefits from the collective expertise of the national network, our deep local community ties are what make us special.