Many of us open our doors to our parents as they get older. Perhaps they need extra care, or just the the company of others after living alone for a long time. Moving your parent into your home may be a natural choice, especially if you or they are reluctant to consider other care options, such as a retirement home or an assisted-living facility.
However, the process can be a difficult one, not only for you but for your parent as well. Careful thought and planning are needed for a smoother transition.
Consider the Financial Implications
An extra person in your home can mean an extra strain on your finances. Moving a parent into your home will increase living expenses, such the grocery and utility bills. In addition, you may need to make adaptations to your home to accommodate your parent’s mobility issues. To avoid financial stress, there are a few things you can do.
First, create a budget that includes the extra expenses. If necessary, curtail your spending to accommodate them. Small changes can add up. Cut unnecessary expenses first. When grocery shopping, for example, pay close attention to price variations. Buy sale and generic items when possible. Also pay attention to the per unit price. Smaller items are often cheaper than Giant size versions. Eliminate any subscriptions you don’t use, or can comfortably live without. Replace disposable items with reusable ones, i.e. paper towels vs. cloth towels, paper napkins vs. cloth napkins.
Second, consider asking your parent to contribute to household living costs. They may offer to do this anyway if they have the financial means, but a conversation on the subject is worth having. If you do not already know, find out how much they can reasonably afford to contribute for their care and living expenses.
Finally, look for financial aid. As seen within the linked article, there may be sources of money you can tap into as a caregiver. Look for a relevant program that can improve your financial situation.
Consider the Needs of Your Parent
To understand the needs of your parent, sit down and have a conversation with them. Determine what level of care they need, if any. If they have health issues, you may want to consider hiring an in-home care aide. Or, you might want to contact a community nursing agency to send somebody on a daily basis to care for your parent’s needs.
Your parent may express a need for space and privacy, as will you. Setting up a separate living area for your parent when possible is ideal. When financially feasible, renovating your home to add an extra bedroom and bathroom is a popular option. Or, you might want to build a granny flat on your property, as this can be built with the specific needs of your parent in mind. Contact Classic Home Improvements for a consultation.
Finally, consider your parent’s safety. Modifications may be required to accommodate mobility issues. Install grab bars in the bathroom, for example. If their bedroom is upstairs, a stair lift may be necessary. Here’s a useful guide for other modifications you might need to make.
Plan Ahead to Ease the Transition for All
The transition can be difficult for both you and your parent, but by planning ahead, the process will be easier. The most important planning step to take is to keep lines of communication open. Sit down and talk to your parent. Provide the opportunity for everyone to share their concerns and work together to create a positive experience. Bring the rest of the family into your conversations as well. By making sure everyone is on the same page, and by accommodating each other’s needs and wishes, the transition will be an easier one.
Let us know your thoughts, and if you have anything to add. We love to hear your ideas and experiences!
