As your parents get older, one of the biggest decisions you will make as a family is whether they should live with you. Here, review tips for making this senior care decision to determine what is right not only for your aging loved ones, but for you, your partner, and your children. Regardless of the decision, it should involve everyone that will be affected by the move.

When Is It Acceptable for Your Parents to Move in With You?

What You & Your Family Must Consider

Have a meeting with your partner and children. Discuss how the move would affect your household, including the possible implications in terms of space and privacy. Perhaps your home features an in-law suite that’s separate from the main house, which would help you avoid the feeling that your parents are “on top” of everyone. Maybe your home lacks the space to accommodate two additional people comfortably, and you would need an addition to comfortably accommodate your parents. If you don’t have the budget to take on two family members and your parents will not be contributing to your bills, having them move in probably isn’t the best idea.

Consider your parents’ impact on your family’s daily schedules as well as your budget. Think about whether your older loved ones would disrupt daily chores, meals, and recreational time, or whether they would actively participate. Your family should also discuss parental move-ins in terms of your current relationship. If you enjoy their company and know that establishing boundaries will not be an issue, go forward with the move.

Keep senior care in mind. Perhaps your parents are relatively independent, or maybe they need you as their main caregiver. If you cannot provide that level of assistance, consider hiring a home care service.

Talking to Your Parents About Moving In

Choose a time to discuss moving in with your parents when they’re feeling their best, such as when they’re satiated and energized after breakfast. Stay patient, and keep in mind that moving in with you means your parents will give up their independence. Make it clear that you respect their privacy and expect the same from them. You may want to create a few rules before the move to help everyone get used to the new living situation.

Preparing for The Move

Perform a senior care “audit” of your home to determine what needs modification, such as entry door ramps to accommodate wheelchairs and safety bar installations in the bathroom. If your parents cannot help fund the cost of house modifications, ask your siblings to contribute. You may also need your siblings’ help to pay for senior care services, in which caregivers will come to your house to help your older loved ones with daily tasks and medication administration. 

If you need in-home senior care assistance, contact Visiting Angels Toms River. Serving Ocean and Monmouth Counties in New Jersey, these compassionate caregivers provide meal preparation, medication monitoring, housekeeping, and Alzheimer’s care, among other services. Call (732) 240-1050 today to get started or visit their website for more information.