As the average age in the United States continues to climb, adult children often find themselves trying to wear numerous hats, including caring for a parent(s), raising a family of their own, and working outside the home. Because of this, moving a parent in with you can be a potential source of relief. It alleviates extra errands and gives the family a peace of mind knowing that their loved on is there with them in the safety of their home.
However, while this might seem like a good idea, is it always the best solution? Here are five issues you and your family should discuss before making this decision:
How do other family members feel about this idea?
How does everyone inside of the home feel about the potential move? Will someone have to give up a room so that their grandparent has a place to stay? How will they feel if this is the case? Do your significant other and parent get along well enough to cohabitate under the same roof? Having an in-law move is not the same as having your own parent in the house. Lastly, how does your parent feel about moving in with you? Are they in favor of this?
Are you prepared for the loss of privacy?
Having an elderly loved on under your roof can give everyone an opportunity to bond with them and build lasting memories. However, it can lead to a loss of privacy that can prove to be tough on everyone, especially the married couples and the senior. Unless your home was designed to have an in-law suite, you will likely have to sacrifice your privacy.
Even your children are likely to feel a loss of personal space and privacy. While they may enjoy their grandparent on the weekends and on vacations, it is not the same when you have them become a permanent person in your household.
Can your home safely accommodate your parent’s needs?
Many homes are not built to accommodate seniors. Doorways might be narrow, bathrooms may lack a step-free shower, and their may be no down stairs rooms. While it might feel like this is a safer decision because you can physically see your loved one is okay, your home might be just as challenging as leaving them in their own environment.
Can you afford this solution?
Some costs of making this move are sometimes overlooked. Home modification expenses can add up quickly. Then, there are the added expenses caused by adding another person to the household: water, food, and transportation.
Another potential cost that is overlooked, is lost wages. As a parent grows older and their need for assistance increases, family caregivers may need to cut back on the hours they are working or quit working all together.
Are there alternatives that may be better?
While a parent might need to stay with you for a few weeks if they are recovering from an illness or surgery, there may be better long-term solutions to consider. An aide from a home care agency can help with meal preparation, transportation and personal care. The average monthly cost for home care is $3,909.
Another option to consider is assisted living. This is senior care designed to provide older adults the assistance they need while allowing them the independence they value. If you would like to try assisted living out, you may want to consider a short term respite stay.
We hope that this information helps you make an informed decision that keeps your senior loved on safe and happy now and in the future.
If you have any questions about senior living or the type of care that might be the best fit for a loved one, please give our Sales Director a call. We’d be happy to help you!
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