Illness and age-related issues can affect a person’s ability to live independently, or where they live may no longer be suitable.
When this happens to an aging parent or loved one, you may need to take steps to live closer to support their ever-increasing needs. However, this sort of transition can come with its own stress.
To ensure a smoother journey, check out the following tips to help you along the way.
The Signs
A lot of seniors can happily live independently for many years; however, it’s also common for some seniors to eventually need support. Indications of this include:
- Mobility: Poor mobility increases the risk of falls. Too many falls is a sure sign your loved one needs extra support.
- Dementia: Memory loss can cause several issues. Wandering and forgetfulness can pose a threat to your loved one’s safety.
- Illness: Seniors with chronic or terminal illnesses may struggle with activities of daily living.
- Loneliness: Loneliness is called the hidden killer. Living closer to a senior loved one can help them avoid isolation and reduce their risk of depression and anxiety.
How You Can Help
There are things you can do to make their life easier. Assuming they can still reside in their present home, you can support them in several ways.
- Cooking and cleaning: It’s especially important when looking after loved ones with dementia as they often forget to eat.
- Shopping: If your loved one suffers from poor mobility, shopping for groceries can be difficult.
- Occupational therapist: Get in touch with one. They can have problems related to movement and coordination in everyday life.
- Companionship: This is critical for your loved one’s mental health. If you can’t visit as much as you’d like, connect with friends or volunteers who can drop in on your loved one regularly.
- Keeping them busy: Look for activities to enjoy together, whether it’s card games, walks, visit to the movies or spending time in the kitchen. For additional stimulation, get in touch with the local senior center, which may offer various activities your loved one can enjoy with their peers.
- Selling their business: If your senior loved one needs to sell their business, you can help get the process started by getting a professional business valuation, figuring out debts, and gathering all business-related documents.
If your loved one’s condition deteriorates and their home is no longer suitable, you may need to look at other options. For example, if stairs are a concern, a first-floor apartment or condo that doesn’t need much care could be an option.
Assisted living is another option, and these communities provide medical and non-medical support, enabling your loved one to live independently while receiving assistance with activities of daily living. In addition, skilled care communities provide 24-hour care for loved ones whose needs are more demanding.
Start the Home Buying Process
To make the process of moving closer to your loved one as easy as possible, try to arrange a work relocation. This will save you the stress of changing jobs.
Next, when applying for a mortgage for your new property, get pre-approved first. Not only will this make you a more competitive buyer, but you’ll also know how much you can afford.
Once you have pre-approval in hand, it’s time to connect with real estate agent who can help you find the perfect home to fit your needs in your preferred neighborhood. And if your loved one will be moving in with you, a realtor can also assist with the staging and sale of their home.
Eliminate the Stress With Planning
You can do so much more for a loved one who needs care if you live close to them. Moving nearby doesn’t have to be stressful. If you plan it right, the move can be an easy process for everyone.
Senior America offers comprehensive assisted living resources so caregivers can make informed decisions about the health of their loved ones.
