Do you have an aging parent or loved one moving into your home?
You’re not alone. Many people opt to move their loved ones into spare bedrooms or mother-in-law suites when they reach a point where they can no longer live alone. There are a lot of reasons people may choose this route over assisted living facilities or other care facilities, but a few reasons may be:
Cost - Assisted living facilities are costly and finding one you are comfortable with in your location can be a challenge.
Level of Care - Many people worry about the level of care their loved ones will receive in an elder care facility.
Location - In more rural areas, it may be hard to travel to visit parents or loved ones if the closest facility is several hours away.
Health Assessment - The state of your loved ones health may not be at a point where assisted living is required.
Regardless of the reason, there are many things to consider when an aging parent moves into your home. Here are some things you can do to help make sure your parents are safe and comfortable in their new living environment.
Bathroom Updates
The bathroom can be one of the more dangerous places for elderly persons, especially if they’re dealing with any kind of medical issues. There are simple additions that require minimal effort or modifications you can make to your bathroom to prevent any accidents or injuries including:
Safety Bars (Grab Bars)
Shower Chairs and Stools
Transfer Benches
Because it’s so easy to slip or fall when water is involved, consider making these updates to your home first and before your loved one(s) move in.
Mobility Options
If your elderly parents have any mobility issues, they may need assistance navigating their new living space. There are some small investments you can make to ensure your parents don’t fall or slip while living their daily life in your home. Consider these options:
Walkers
Rollators
Place one or two of these in areas of your home that have large spaces without options for mobility assistance.
Bedroom Aides
For many who have elder parents move in, setting up the bedroom as a retreat and living space can be important. Making sure elderly loved ones have what they may need at any time of day nearby can prevent any issues or accidents. The below options may help reduce or eliminate any issues.
A Manual or Electric Hospital Bed
Lift Chairs
Bed Wedges
Hoyer Lifts
Purchasing or installing any of these options to help your elderly loved ones get in and out of bed or chairs can range in price, but can prevent costly surgeries from any accidents or falls.
It can be a huge adjustment to have a parent or other elderly person move into your home and we hope this information can help. If you have an elderly parent or loved one moving into your home in the Houston, Texas area - contact us on the web or stop by our store for assistance. We’re happy to help!
