28 Jul How Do You Get an Elderly
Family Member Into a Care Home?
Figuring out when to place elderly family into a care home can be difficult. Many physical and mental challenges unfold over time and aren’t accompanied by a sudden diagnosis or accident, making it hard to figure out if mom or dad really needs that level of support.
However, that’s only part of the challenge. Once you have determined that your loved one should move into a care home, how do you get them to go?
Start the conversation as early as possible
There is a relatively long list of signs that you should consider if you think it’s time for a loved one to move into an assisted living facility or a nursing home. As soon as mom or dad falls for the first time or they show signs of withdrawing socially, for example, it’s a good idea to start the conversation, if you haven’t started it already.
It’s important to involve your loved one in the decision as much as possible so they feel like they have some control over their future. Talk about the benefits of a possible move and try to build some excitement for what they would have to look forward to if they decided to leave home.
Research and evaluate local care facilities
Even if your loved one isn’t ready to move yet, it’s still a good idea to research local care facilities. Tour a few different places and get your loved one on the waiting list, if necessary. That way, when the time comes, you aren’t left scrambling at the last minute and end up placing your loved one in the first facility that’s available.
Consider finances
You also have to consider finances. Assisted living facilities and nursing homes can be expensive. Determine if your loved one qualifies for Medicaid, or how your family will pay for your loved one’s care. The last thing you want to do when it becomes clear that your loved one needs to move into an assisted care home right away is dig through their finances.
If you’re struggling to help your elderly family into a care home, or if finances are something that you’re worried about, consider starting with a Life & Health Care aide. We customize our services so you can pay for the care your loved one needs, and because we do it in their home, there’s no need to pay room and board fees that are required in a care facility.