How to Prepare for an Elderly Parent to Move in to Your Home

Studies have shown that people live longer in a family home environment than when placed in institutions, such as nursing homes. If you’re lucky enough to help and willing to make some changes in your and your family’s life, having your elderly parent move in can be a fabulous experience; take it from me. My 93 year old Mom, Gertie, has been with me 3 years now, and I couldn’t be more pleased or honored to be able to take care of her. Below are some tips to preparing for an elderly parent’s arrival.

1. Parent proof your home, if needed. The elderly might be confused when working with new items, such as a new microwave or toaster. Get a label maker and label the start buttons on appliances. Use colored stickie notes to highlight buttons if you don’t have a label maker. Tack down all throw rugs with double-sided tape to avoid elderly shufflers tripping.
2. Put your address in key spots around the house. Post your address near every phone, by the front door, and on the kitchen refrigerator. That way, if your parent needs to call for help, the information doesn’t have to be memorized, just read. This is helpful when you have a homecare worker spell you for a weekend too.
3. Foster a support system. Nothing is more important to the caregiver than to be, well, given care once in a while. You need to stay healthy in order to keep your charge healthy. Ask friends and family to fill in for you periodically so you can run away for a night or, if you’re very lucky, for a weekend.

With a bit of preparation, this time in your life may be your shining moment. Living with an elderly parent may be your most proud accomplishment.

For more information, see the below articles:

How to recognize early heart attack symptoms in women

How to Interview a Home Care Worker For the Elderly