How do I know when it is time for my parent to go to a nursing home?

On Behalf of | Jun 19, 2019 | Uncategorized

Growing older is something that inevitably happens to everyone. While you may not want to consider that your parent can no longer care for himself or herself, and may need to move into a care facility, often it is the best choice to make. Not every elderly adult will require residential care, but if you recognize certain signs, that may be the best option for your loved one.

According to A Place for Mom, one of the top reasons for making the decision to put someone in a residential care facility is their own safety. If your parent is no longer safe living on their own, then moving him or her to a residential facility could be the right thing for everyone. This can ensure your loved one stays safe and reduce your worries.

Another common reason for an elder’s move to residential care is that their loved ones become overwhelmed with caregiving responsibilities.  You may be frequently required to go to your elder loved one’s home to take care of them and/or deal with the frequent challenges that inevitably occur for older folks, which will take its toll on your and your other family members. If you are constantly worried about your parent being alone, this, is a sign that changes may be needed.

You could be realizing that your loved one has become too medically fragile or confused for family members to manage. Increasing care needs or serious health situations may require more care than you can reasonably give. If you cannot keep up with your loved one’s care needs, then you should consider a residential facility for them. Many different levels of care are available to our loved ones who shouldn’t be living on their own. You can look for the option which feels the least intrusive to them, and preserves their dignity and independence as much as reasonably possible.

A residential care facility may be the solution to keeping your loved one safe and healthy. The urge to keep an elder loved one in his or her home should not override their health, safety and well-being.

This information is for purposes of discussion only, and should not be considered legal advice.