Important Considerations Before Moving an Elderly Relative Closer to Your Home

Making the decision to move an elderly parent or relative closer to your home can be driven by caregiving needs or a desire to keep family close. Whatever the reasons, it’s an important step that requires careful thought and planning. Here are some key considerations before moving an elderly relative into your neighborhood.

Assessing Your Relative’s Needs

The first step is having an open and honest discussion with your elderly relative about their current health, mobility, and care needs. Are they still fully independent or do they need some assistance with daily activities? Do they require specialized medical care? Get a sense of their physical abilities and limitations. This will help determine if they can live fully independently or need to move to a facility with more care support. If their needs are minimal now but may progress, choose a location with increasing levels of care available.

Evaluating Your Ability to Provide Care

Take a realistic look at your own situation. Do you have the time and energy to provide transportation, prepare meals, manage medications, handle finances, etc.? Caregiving can be demanding – assess your abilities and other commitments truthfully. Involve other family members in the discussion too. Share caregiving duties if possible. Seek outside caregiving assistance or adult day programs if needed. Don’t take on more than you can manage.

Choosing the Right Housing

Independent living communities, assisted living facilities and nursing homes provide varying levels of amenities, care and supervision. Select housing that aligns with your relative’s needs and budget. Visit multiple options to help them choose what will be comfortable. Look for indicators of quality care at facilities. Consider proximity to your home, transportation options, on-site amenities and services.

Encouraging Their Independence

The ability to live independently for as long as possible is important for aging adults. Choose housing that enables self-care and doesn’t create unnecessary dependency. Offer levels of support but allow your relative to do what they can on their own. Maintain social connections and activities they enjoy. Enable their autonomy while providing care as needed.

Considering the Financial Aspects

Moving and ongoing housing costs can strain budgets. Have candid financial discussions to develop a plan. Look into insurance coverage, Medicare/Medicaid support, VA benefits if applicable, and tap into your relative’s financial resources. Explore assisted living scholarships or family payment plans if needed. Consider the cost of affordable long distance medical transportation if your relative can’t make the trip alone or needs medical support. Consult a financial advisor to create a workable budget and financing strategy.

Involving Your Relative in the Process

This is a major life transition for your aging family member. Include them in every step of the decision-making to give them a sense of control. Get their input on housing options and location. Introduce them to new communities before moving to ease fears. The more ownership they have in the move, the smoother the adjustment is likely to be.

Relocating a relative takes time, research and careful preparation. Keeping their needs, preferences, finances and your own abilities front of mind will lead to the best outcome for all. With patience and compassion, the move can greatly enrich both your lives.