What to Do If Aging Parents Don't Want to Live in a Retirement Home but Can't Live Independently

It is common for elderly loved ones to want to stay independent. While a retirement home works for some, others may prefer getting in-home care. This is a quality alternative that can meet the desires of the senior while also providing the help they need.

There are a growing number of in-home solutions that can be done in the elderly loved one's home or in the home of another family member. The options include: 

Hiring an In-Home Caregiver

Hiring an in-home caregiver is how many families start senior care. Aides help with a wide variety of services like running errands, driving to appointments, performing housecleaning, preparing meals, planning in-home activities, and more. Having a companion like this can boost a senior's spirits, which can be crucial as senior loneliness and social isolation are leading causes of declining health.

Aides are trained to work with seniors and can assess their changing needs. For example, they can determine when more skilled nursing services could be added. 

In-home care companies have a process to determine an effective care plan. Once visits start, the team will communicate frequently with the family. A family member is welcome to suggest care changes at any time. 

Finding a Live-In Nurse

Sometimes, more skilled assistance is needed. Nurses with specialized training are available to provide care at a personal residence. Seniors with diverse needs, from ones with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's to those recovering after surgery, can receive quality care that mirrors that of a senior facility setting.

Plans can include round-the-clock care, where a nurse can also be supplemented with care provided by a family member. This is a great option for an elderly loved one who is most comfortable in a home setting. When desires are met, a quality life is achieved. 

Moving the Senior to a Family Member's Home

A family may want to help in the care of their elderly loved one. When round-the-clock care is needed, costs could be lowered when a senior moves in with a family member.

Many families will supplement care by hiring an in-home caregiver or a nurse to help them. This helps a family member maintain time to work outside the home or have a personal break for rest.

While families may want to help care for a senior in their life, circumstances can change. A family member who decides to take on caregiving for a senior should establish a support system. This could be other family members, friends, clergy, or a counselor. There are also senior in-home online forums and community support groups. 

Having the ability to talk with others can help a caregiver brainstorm when they run into obstacles. The well-being of a caretaker is just as important as that of the senior loved one.   

Making an In-Home Care Plan

There are many benefits of in-home care. Senior Helpers Auburn Hills, which serves Auburn Hills, Troy, Bloomfield Hills, Pontiac, and Oakland County, is available to meet with families and talk about options. Senior Helpers offers a variety of care services, and we also have caretaking resources and tools to support families. 

Contact Senior Helpers Auburn Hills at any time to schedule an appointment.