Considerations When Helping Your Senior Loved One Transition to a Care Facility

​The decision to seek a senior care facility for a loved one can be difficult. You and your loved one may be uncertain how to proceed. It’s important to include your senior loved one in the decision-making process as much as possible, but you may also need to make choices for their well-being that are beyond their control. Courtesy of Juanita’s House Cleaning, here are the most important considerations to keep in mind as you and your loved one prepare for this major life change.

How self-sufficient would your senior loved one like to be?

​It can be difficult to transition from a self-sufficient lifestyle to being dependent on others, so have a sincere conversation with your loved one about what they feel capable of and where they may require support. Look for a facility that will respect their desire for autonomy even when routine care is necessary. 
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Some nursing facilities offer different service options, so if your loved one has special needs, you may be able to balance wellness care with a degree of independence. There are also facilities that offer several different options so your loved one can transition to a higher level of care when needed.

What kind of care is needed?

​Make a list of everything you and your loved one are hoping for in their new residence. Do they prefer their own quarters and a self-sufficient lifestyle, or will they need on-site caregivers? Are they able to prepare their own meals and do housework? Do they hope to be able to leave the facility on occasion for shopping or other excursions? For older adults who need a little extra help but can generally get by on their own, Elizz.com notes that an assisted living facility may be ideal. 
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Seniors who need regular medical care, physical therapy, or assistance with basic hygiene will need the round-the-clock care provided in a nursing home. Those with cognitive or memory issues will benefit from a memory care facility. Carefully consider which facility is right for your senior loved one, and then research costs and reviews for senior living in your area.

How close do you want to be to your loved one?

​Depending on where you live, it may be difficult to find a facility near your home. If this is the case, consider how often you hope to visit your senior loved one, how long a drive is acceptable, and where you could stay while visiting them. If you can arrange with other family members or friends near them to visit them from time to time or to host you when you travel, this could be helpful. Seniors who are better able to tend to their own needs may not need as frequent visits, but they will surely appreciate them!
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Hiring Juanita's House Cleaning service can be a practical solution for maintaining a clean and healthy environment for your loved one, especially if you live far away. Their professional team can handle regular cleaning tasks, ensuring the home remains safe and comfortable for your family member. With their reliable service, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved one's living space is being cared for with attention and expertise.

What’s helpful if a senior loved one comes to live with you?

Installing smart home technologies can significantly enhance the safety and comfort of senior loved ones moving into your household. Smart lighting and voice-activated systems can provide easy control of the environment, reducing the risk of falls and increasing accessibility. Additionally, smart health monitoring devices can offer peace of mind by tracking vital signs and sending alerts in case of emergencies, ensuring prompt assistance when needed.

Are there any special concerns or preferences to be aware of?

Some seniors may want to be in a facility that provides regular socializing, whereas others may want a little more privacy. Some may be interested in maintaining physical activity and want a facility with an attractive outdoor area for walking and enjoying the fresh air. Others may be drawn to a community that emphasizes creativity, music, and the arts. Think about what your senior loved one needs not only to get by but to live a full and happy life.

However, special concerns don’t just apply to your loved one. Remember, your needs are important, too! For instance, if you move to be closer to your loved one in order to help them, will that require you to move your business, as well? If so, there are several steps you’ll need to take, from changing your address to informing your employees.

In case there’s concern that abuse or neglect may take place once your loved one is in the facility, it’s a good idea to have attorneys on hand who specialize in this area.

What can you afford?

Unfortunately, not everyone has saved enough to afford long-term care. If your senior is relying on Medicaid to pay for care this means your options may be limited. However, you may be able to strategize by seeking veteran’s benefits or selling property. 

Discuss with your senior loved one whether they are comfortable selling their home or other personal property to help afford the expense of a facility. You can use a home sales proceeds calculator and research local real estate prices so you can budget based on what you’re likely to get.

Be sure to factor in the cost of moving into their budget. Aardvark Moving points out that depending on the distance of the move and how many items are being moved from their home, expenses can be considerable. If they need furniture moved from their new home, you can find capable local movers by perusing reviews on movers in your area. You may even find movers who are offering special rates and discounts. 

While this transition can be difficult for you and your loved one, in the long run, you will be more at ease knowing your senior is in good hands. Working with them on picking out the right facility means they will go into it knowing what to expect, and even looking forward to greater security and enhanced quality of life.

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