It can be difficult to talk about moving your parents into a nursing home or assisted living facility, however it needs to happen. The earlier you can react and notice warning signs from your elderly parents, the easier it is to have thorough conversations and prepare for the change. It is important to be direct and maintain the conversation with your parents while they are still able to have the most say in how they live the rest of their lives.
Signs To Watch For
It is important to have conversations with your parents about their future, particularly if they are exhibilting any signs of memory loss. They should be able to make the most educated and informed decisions. Crucial signs to watch are for include:
- Forgetfulness
- If a parent continues to do things like leave the stove on, forgets to take medications, gets confused or forgets what they are doing.
- Lack of Appetite
- If a parent has no appetite, or is unable to eat.
- Physical Limitations
- If a parent finds him or herself prone to falling or having any side effects from medications.
Steps to Take
- Start the conversation early on
- Even if your elderly parents haven’t exhibited any of the above warning signs, it can be helpful to start the conversation earlier on in life. Regular conversations about what the future may hold and how your family will deal with it will make it easier for your family to address the issues when they become more pressing. It can also make it so that in the event of any sort of health incident, it is not a surprise when you begin talking to them about moving them to a nursing home.
- Make sure all siblings are on the same page
- It will be easier if everyone in your family is on the same page. Hold meetings with other immediate family members, without the parents present, if need be to ensure that you all want the same things.
- Ask them family questions
- It is also important for you to make sure you get information from your parents about your family. You may not know about their childhood, how they met, or any other interesting family history. Ask them before it’s too late.
- Choose a Facility
- Do research on a facility that will provide the best service for your parents. Choose somewhere that will fit their lifestyle needs and where they will be the most comfortable.
- Power of Attorney
- Learn your parents preferences for end-of-life options. It can be difficult to discuss, but make sure you know what their wishes are. Obtain legal powers so that you can handle their end-of-life wishes, as well as the rest of their affairs.
- No Extra Luggage
- Don’t let your parents bring jewelry or other valuable items. Hold on to them or put them somewhere for safekeeping such as a safety deposit box.
It can be very difficult and even feel like you are being cold toward your parent or parents, but it is necessary to take these steps to ensure that they have the best quality of life. For questions or legal assistance with moving your parents into a nursing home, call 856-227-7888, or contact us at [email protected]. We offer free consultations and have locations in Camden, Burlington, and Gloucester counties, and are happy to discuss your legal options.