No one wants to think about giving up the independence they have enjoyed all their lives. However, as we age, we experience physical and cognitive changes that may require us to rely on others to complete activities of daily life. When a parent lives independently, this means they are responsible for themselves and can participate in the activities they choose. Some seniors may be able to live on their own for many years after they retire.
Physical and Cognitive Changes
As your loved ones age, it is important to look for any changes in their physical and cognitive behavior. Physical changes such as worsening eyesight, incidences of sudden falls, or dizziness are easy to spot. Cognitive decline is harder to identify. Everyone has moments of forgetfulness or minor confusion. When these moments begin to form a pattern and they begin to have an impact on your loved one’s quality of life, it may be time to consider assisted living for them. Forgetting to take medications or skipping meals can have serious consequences.
Making the transition to assisted living can be difficult for a person who has enjoyed freedom for their entire adult life. You can start the process by having an aide come to check on your parent once or twice a week, so they get used to having someone assist them. This is especially important if they live alone and do not have many social interactions, which can lead to feelings of loneliness.
There may be a point when caring for your parent places too much stress on those providing the care. Caregivers are usually the last to see that they are burning out and are no longer effective in their role.
Do the research
You will want to include your parent as much as possible in the decision-making process regarding assisted living. The first steps are for you to identify assisted-living facilities in your area and then set up tours of the premises to see what they have to offer. Select the facilities that have amenities and activities that interest your parent and fit within the overall budget. Remember that you are moving them to a safe community where their physical and cognitive needs can be met 24/7.
One thing to keep in mind is that Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living. The bills are usually paid through a combination of private funding, long-term insurance, or veterans’ benefits programs. Selling a home, using savings, or accepting contributions from family are some ways assisted living is financed. However, Medicare will continue to pay for medical-related expenses that are incurred within the assisted-living facility, including doctors’ visits, prescriptions, or physical therapy.
When is the right time to move your parent into an assisted-living facility? The short answer is that every situation is different. Trust your instincts and pay attention to any changes to your loved one’s physical or cognitive behavior. You should also get input from medical professionals. While the decision is a difficult one, the safety and well-being of your parent should be your guiding light.
If you are a caregiver, we have resources on our website to help you connect with others. Visit our Elder Law planning page: https://mackaydressler.com/resources/elder-law/caregiver/
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