Putting a loved one in a nursing home can be a tough decision, but in some cases, it may be the best choice for their health, safety, and quality of life. Many nursing homes allow a person a level of independent living while still ensuring that he or she is safe and getting the medical care that he or she needs. If you’re considering putting a loved one in an assisted living community, here are a few things you need to do.
1. Be Open About the Decision.
The first thing you should do is be as open as possible about the decision. It can be a tough realization for an elderly parent to come to, that they need help and can no longer live safely with the same amount of independence and to admit that they need help. Trying to force a parent into a long term care facility might make the process more difficult than just being open about your concerns and what needs to be done to help them.
2. Find a Place That Will Suit Your Parent’s Future Needs.
Admitting a parent to an assisted living community is usually a permanent move, so making sure that whichever facility you choose will be able to accommodate his or her future needs is essential. Having to move into a new place will be enough of an adjustment without having to pick up and move to another one in a few years.
3. Figure Out Finances.
Assisted living homes do cost money, so it’s important to plan well and figure out how it’s going to be paid for in the long term before actually making the decision. Again, putting parents in a home is a big decision, and you don’t want to disrupt their lives further by having to move them. Do your research and evaluate your resources before committing to a facility.
Do you have any other advice about what a person should do before putting a parent in assisted living? Feel free to let us know in the comments section. Continue your research here.