A lot of us, once our parents or relatives get older, we start to think of putting them in assisted living facilities. Though that may be absolutely necessary for some of us, the opposite is true for others. There is still the option of keeping them at home. This might seem scary, but thanks to technological and medical advancements there are plenty of options and ways to ensure the well-being and safety of your loved ones while they remain at home. Let’s face it. You might be feeling guilty about packing up your mom or dad and shipping them off, especially if they are putting up a resistance. Before you do that, here are some reasons why keeping your loved one at home might be better for them than moving them into assisted living:
It Keeps Your Senior Comfortable
Imagine that you have lived at the same place for 30-40 years. Imagine the love that you have for that place. And imagine the sense of comfort that you have developed from that familiarity. I don’t think that you would want to leave the place that feels most like home. Allowing your senior relative to stay at home grants them that sense of comfort and familiarity, as opposed to the angst of moving to somewhere new and unfamiliar like a nursing home. Try not to underestimate the power of home and the feeling of home that goes along with that.
It Maintains Independence
As we age, we diminish in our capability to do certain things. Our bodies just aren’t as able as they used to be. Seniors have to relinquish a lot of control and ask for help. But this doesn’t mean that they have to live in an assisted living facility. If your senior is able to remain at home without any true danger to their well-being, then it can help to maintain their sense of independence which goes a long way in improving their self-image and self-esteem. Where there is the need for assistance, you can provide your senior with a professional caregiver. Your elderly relative will maintain their independence but will also have access to assistance when needed.
It Reduces Loneliness and Maintains a Sense of Community
If your senior lives alone and have lived in the same place for a long time, then chances are that they may have developed some social connections nearby. There is also the possibility that family and relatives live within reach. The close proximity of loved ones contributes to the quality of life of your elderly relative. It can also decrease loneliness and maintain their sense of community. This sense of closeness is also often good for family and relatives that live nearby. Most of us, including you, often prefer to have mom or dad close to home.
It is Cheaper to Keep Your Senior at Home
Money! Money! Money!
When I think of assisted living, all I see are dollar signs. The cost of nursing homes and assisted living facilities add up. Long term care in facilities is expensive. If money is a concern, then you should know that it may be cheaper to keep your elderly relative at home. Even with the cost of in-home caregiving professionals, it is still cheaper to keep your senior relatives at home. You have all the benefits of having your loved one at home, and your wallet doesn’t scream at you while they are staying at home.
Simply Because Your Senior Doesn’t Want To
This one is obvious, but worth a mention. If your senior is functional and not bedridden, then why do they need to leave home? Research claims that approximately 90% of seniors don't want to leave home. They would much prefer the comfort of their homes and communities. As aforementioned, there are other options for taking care of your aging relatives that do not include leaving home. So, why put them and yourself through the trouble?
There are many scenarios why it would make sense to place your loved ones in a facility. They might need it 100%. And if that is the case, take the necessary steps. But if your senior doesn't need to leave home, that's fine too. Dorson is here to make it easier for you. Learn about the many services available by clicking the link.
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