There is a lot of talk about coping with or caring for an aging parent. If you are like the rest of us, there are many emotions and thoughts running through your head. The roles between parent and child tend to change places.
Are you asking yourself questions like: "Should I have my parent move in with me?" " Am I a bad child if I don't want my parents to move in with me?" "Should I move them into an assisted living facility or senior apartment?"
Now ask yourself questions like this: "Are they able to take care of themselves?" "Can they make their own meals?" "Can they clean their home?" "Can they bathe or shower with ease?" "What kind of health risks do they face?" "Do they remember to take all medication?" After assessing the situation then look into all the options that there are for you.
It is always best to let your aging parent live as independently and in their own home as long as they are able. When faced with minor set backs, you can hire a Home Care Provider to help. In the South Bend area there are lots of options from an independent Home Care Provider to big franchises like Comfort Keepers or Home Instead.
When medical problems make it a little harder you might have to think more in the line of a senior apartment complex where meals would be provided. Again the South Bend area is loaded with options. For example, The Whitlock Senior Apartments in the neighboring town of Bremen, is a nice place with beautiful surroundings. There, your parents can still be independent, live with other senior adults and yet get a meal provided. You may even consider combining living in a senior apartment with a part time Home Care provider.
If this does not meet your needs you might have to think assisted living. The Heritage House is near South Bend in Nappanee, Indiana. It is a lovely assisted living community.
If none of these options are for you, then you might have to think more in the line of a nursing home. It should be your last option, so make your decision very carefully. But there are times when medical problems force your hand as it is more than you can do alone.
In all of these scenarios you can and should remain active in their lives. Instead of ruining, it might actually save your relationship with your parents.
Comments
Excellent article, I particularly like your last paragraph. I have my mother living with me, she has severe dementia.
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