Are you concerned about their your parents personal safety? Have they been doing pretty well, but are now needing some extra care? Do your parents skip meals once and awhile and are not getting proper nutrition? At some point in time we all reach a place where we need help. With elderly parents there is always a worry about them eating properly, falling or living in a house that is in desperate need of repairs. Changing their living conditions may fall on you, so get your research done so you can make a good case for their change.
If your parents are simply no longer able to take good care of themselves, someone needs to make a new plan for their living conditions. Whether you have one elderly parent living alone, or both parents who are struggling, their safety is paramount. The process of losing their sight, becoming forgetful, or even depressed can happen slowly and may or may not be noticed for what it is, by your parent.
The first step is to find an alternative living situation. Most elderly people prefer to live in the same vicinity they have been living in, so that is the first place to look. If they live in a rural area, or a facility is not available look for something that is close to one of their children. You obviously want the nicest place you can find for your parent, that they can afford, and if there are several available you will need to check each one out carefully. Depending on the situation, you may be looking at a retirement apartment, which is quite independent, or assisted living which involves more care. Make a list of things you need to know and make an appointment to visit with the administrator of each establishment. Not all places are going to be alike and not all are going to be well kept up. Come early for your appointment and sit in a public area where other residents may gather. Ask them how they like living there, and why.
Add these comments to your notes for each place you visit. If your parents know anyone living there, visit with them and ask them if you can give their phone number to your parents, should they want to call them regarding how they like the change in their living situation. Make sure you take brochures and if there is not an apartment available, if you think this is a good candidate, add your parents name to the waiting list. Do not wait to discuss this with your parents. If an apartment becomes available and you are called, you don't need to take it, if you parents are not ready to move. However make sure you understand what happens if they don't move in. Ask if their names get bumped to the bottom of the list or if they simply get moved down one spot. Also make sure that you are clear on what services are available with the cost of the apartment and what are additional costs. Tour the complex and one of the rooms or apartments. Know if they have additional care available should the need arise. Some apartments are attached to assisted living places, and some of those may be associated with a nearby nursing home.
After you have acquired the information, compare each place. Narrow it down to your first, second and third choice. Organize your comparisons and prepare good reasons for moving, to what you consider, to be the best place.
No comments:
Post a Comment