Your parents may reach a point in life where one needs a greater degree of care than the other. In this instance, you may need to help them reevaluate their living situation, potentially relocating them to a smaller more manageable home, or even a retirement community or assisted living facility. These types of living environments vary from one location to another, and there are multiple price points and amenities to consider. New LifeStyles can help you make the best-informed decision by providing insights and information on various housing options.
Deciding to Downsize
In some cases, your parents may be able to retain their independent living status by downsizing into a smaller home that allows them to be more self-sufficient or to live independently with the help of some outside services, like nursing care. In this case, you’ll need to help them dispose of belongings they no longer want or need and get situated in their new home. Single stories are often a good bet, as are low-maintenance lawns. Regular meal delivery service and access to outside transportation can help ensure they’re able to maintain some degree of self-sufficiency.
Assessing Care Needs
No two people are the same, and it may be that one parent needs a higher degree of physical care than another. In this instance, a hybrid assisted living facility might be a good option. These environments allow couples to live together in the same facility where one receives a more significant degree of care than the other, who is able to maintain a level of independence. Most of these living options offer tiered plans so that when health needs change, care levels change, all in the same location. This can help ensure couples age in place together, while still having access to the specific types of assistance and medical care each needs.
Researching Options
There are many different types of assisted living environments available, and choosing which one is best for your parents’ needs requires a bit of research. According to U.S News, you’ll need to factor in cost considerations early on. If you sell your parent’s home, you may be able to liquidate enough assets to cover care, or you may be able to rely on retirement savings or long-term care insurance. If your parents have financial assets available to finance their needs, it might make sense for you to have their power of attorney in order to help them manage their money. If you’re planning from far away, a service like SeniorCare.com can be a resource to aid in this process. This site can help you make assessments about what type of living environment is most appropriate for your parent’s needs and budget in the location of their choosing.
Evaluating Facilities
Whether you tour locations in person or virtually, there are a number of different questions you’ll want to ask prospective facilities. According to the AARP, in addition to issues regarding cost and basic care, you may also want to know if there are specialties that would apply to your parent’s unique situation and healthcare needs. For example, some facilities focus primarily on memory care for those with dementia and other memory disorders. Ask about activities, staff-to-resident ratios, on-site medical care specialists, and opportunities for socialization. If you can visit the top selections in person, you’re likely to get a better idea of what would be the best fit for your loved ones.
Even in the best of circumstances, it can be difficult for parents to give up a fully independent lifestyle or become reliant on others. Listen to their questions and concerns with an open mind and try to offer reassurances for this next phase of life. Consider allowing them to be involved in the process of choosing where they’ll go, who gets their possessions, and how they’ll manage the process. By handling the situation with care and compassion, it’s much more likely you’ll be able to make a smooth transition.
New LifeStyles is a resource designed to help you narrow the focus when it comes to making the best decisions for your loved ones. We offer comprehensive, free information on a variety of care options. Visit our site today to learn more, or reach out via phone or email for additional information.