As your parents grow older, they will start to have different needs to when they were more physically/mentally able. And when one of them passes, you might be considering moving the other into your home – especially if they want the company or need caring for every day.
However, this is a big step both for you as their child and them as they may feel as though they are losing a part of their independence. There are, therefore, certain considerations that you should keep in mind from the start before taking the leap. To help ensure that it’s the best decision for all parties,
Changes to Your Lifestyle
When you move your mom or dad into your home you need to consider how this will affect your lifestyle. Even though this might seem like a selfish thought at first, it’s a key consideration. Why? Because you need to make sure that you’re living your life to the fullest, along with your parent getting the best care possible.
You need to be ready for how the change will alter what you’re used to. For example, if you’re used to it just being you and your partner, you need to think about how different it will be the moment that they move in.
How They Feel About it
Another important thing to consider is how they are feeling about the process. Do they want to move into your home? Or will they prefer to carry on living in their house independently? If they require special care, then this might, of course, not be possible and they may need to find either home help or move into residential care.
But it’s a good idea to sit down and discuss with them the prospect and get their thoughts on it ahead of time. It’s their life that’s changing too so you don’t want to force them into anything that they aren’t comfortable with.
What Relationship You Have with Them
How is the relationship you have with them? If you have a good relationship, then this step could prove to be a great one to take. Whereas if you’ve never been close to them or your relationship has frayed throughout the years then it might not be a good idea. Think this through thoroughly before you take the leap and dive headfirst into it.
Making Your Home More Accessible
As part of the process, you may have to make your home more accessible for your mom or dad depending on their physical abilities. For example, this could involve investing in Handicap Ramps, handles for the bath/shower, shower seats, stairlifts, etc. Determine what changes you’ll need to make and whether your budget can cover it.
Your Financial Resources
Following on from the above, along with the expenses that come with making your home more accessible you’ll also have to think about how much other aspects such as food and other bills will cost when they move in.
Also, if they require professional help, you’ll have to budget for this. Luckily, there are several ways that you can get this money without using your savings such as through Medicare.
Final Thoughts
So, there you go! Those are 5 things that you should consider if you’re thinking about moving your mom or dad into your home. All valid points, the above when used in conjunction with further research should help to decide whether it’s the best decision for both you and your loved one.
