It’s always hard to see your parents age and even tougher when you’re faced with the decision regarding them moving into a care home. However, certain circumstances mean that it’s no longer safe or viable for them to live alone at home anymore, and so a move needs to be made. It’s hard for your parent to face this reality, too, after nearly an entire lifetime of independence. This is why it’s essential to deal with this situation with sensitivity. Here are some ways for you to help your parent select the right care home for them.
Listen
It’s essential to listen to what your parent wants out of their care home, as well as finding one that is suitable for their specific needs. The bottom line is that they are the ones who will have to live there, and that is why they need to feel comfortable with the facility. Although you might not always agree with them, don’t make them feel like their opinion doesn’t count or that they are unable to decide for themselves what they want.
Do Your Research
They are many care options available, and your parent might have specific requirements when it comes to types of care. For example, if your parent suffers from dementia, a specialist home that caters to those needs will be necessary. Other more common facilities include retirement homes and assisted living. It’s crucial to keep in mind that not everyone will suit these types of homes, which is why you must do your research first and get as much information as possible. Ask friends and family if they have any recommendations or knowledge if they have a relative in a care home and make sure to visit a few before you decide. There is also plenty of assisted living information available online for you to read to help with this process.
Finances
It’s important to be pragmatic about how much you can afford to spend on these facilities. Your parent might be paying towards this too, but if you are footing the bill or contributing to it, you both need to discuss what is achievable from a financial perspective. This might seem like a cold and awkward conversation to have, but to avoid any tensions or problems later down the line, it’s a necessary discussion. Both you and your parents need to be comfortable with how much this care will cost and find the best you can afford.
Be Patient
As mentioned previously, facing the reality of having to leave their home and move into an assisted living facility or another type of care home can be distressing and frustrating for your parent. You might feel as though getting them to agree or come to a decision feels like fighting a losing battle, which can be exasperating but remember to be patient with them. They need to come to terms with it, and you need to find a balance to make sure that when they do make a move, they’re happy in their new surroundings.
In some circumstances, you might have to make this decision for your parent. However, if they are still able to do this themselves, it’s your job to give them guidance and support to make sure they get the best care and are comfortable with their new living situation.
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