Almost 32 percent of U.S. adults share their home with their parents. This is one of the easier ways to care for your parents without having to sell your home and move your family to another area. It’s also hard to blend families. Your parents are used to their community and household habits. You’re accustomed to your own rules and situation.

Before you move your mom into your home, make some changes to your home. More than her safety is at risk. You need to take steps to make the transition easy for everyone in your household.

Start With Safety

One of the first things to do is to address safety issues. If your mom is on medications, has issues with mobility, or doesn’t see well, your home could be hazardous. Add grab rails in the bathroom. Make sure the lighting is bright enough to prevent falls in a hallway, entryway, or stairs. Check that rails on stairs inside and outside the home are secure.

Check your home for loose or curled up carpeting that could cause someone to trip and fall. Scatter rugs should be removed or secured to the floor using non-slip backing. Arrange furniture so that legs or corners don’t jut out into high traffic areas.

Create a Schedule

Families that suddenly share a home may have a hard time with bathroom schedules. If you have a limited number of bathrooms, your mom needs to remember that she’s not in a home where she’s the only one in need of the shower or toilet. Others in your family also need to remember she may not be used to having to share.

If your kids go to school at 7 a.m., your mom could schedule her time for a shower after they leave. If you know your mom likes to go to bed early, you could make sure others stay out of the bathroom until after she’s brushed her teeth and gotten ready for bed.

Scheduling also helps with transportation, meals, laundry, and housework. If there’s an approximate schedule posted where everyone can see it, arguments are less likely to occur.

Arrange Senior Care So That You Have Breaks

Leave time where you and your children and spouse or significant other have time alone. To do this, arrange senior care services. Ask specifically about respite care. Your mom won’t be alone, but you’re able to leave the home knowing she’s in good hands. Call a senior care agency to discuss the ways you can make sure your mom has the care she needs when you need a break.

Sources: https://www.aarp.org/home-family/friends-family/info-2018/adults-live-with-children-fd.html

Author
Recent Posts

Ellen Samson

CEO at American Geriatric Care Management

American Geriatric was founded from personal experience of Ellen. Originating from a culture-rich country and strong family ties, Ellen felt the need of sharing the responsibility of taking care of the elders of the family. Growing up with the grandpas’ and grandmas’ love and care, spoiled with kisses and gifts and advice gave her the passion for returning the care.

In June 2011, American Geriatric was incorporated.It started out with a few staff. With the increasing number of clients signing up for in-home care, it expanded its network and multiplied the number of care providers to accommodate the need. In January 2012, health coordination and family dynamics support services were offered to cater to a more complex care needs of the elderly.

American Geriatric is now a full-fledged licensed Home Care Organization regulated by Home Care Services Bureau of California Department of Social Services, in full compliance with AB1217, The Home Care Services Consumer Protection Act.