Benefits of Moving your Elderly Parents into a Nursing Home
As we watch our parents age, it is only a matter of time before you begin to wonder about the best way to care for their changing and increasing needs. You are likely considering the pros and cons of nursing home care, especially compared to home care.
This decision is often one charged with emotions, especially guilt and grief. You may want to personally give your parents the care they need, but be underqualified or overworked. And accepting they need a level of care beyond what you can provide can come with challenges about the realities of their aging and our own.
At Copeland Oaks, we understand what a big decision it is to move your elderly parents into a nursing home or to consider assisted living. Below, we’ve considered a few of the most common reasons people choose to move their parents into a senior living community.
More Time on Your Hands
If you are overwhelmed with responsibilities, you are likely not feeling capable of doing any one task to your fullest ability. There are only so many hours in the day. This is a challenge that grows more and more overwhelming and as your parents’ needs increase.
As you consider your options, you may find that needing more time is a worthwhile reason to move your parents into a nursing home.
Personalized Care
At a certain point, personalized professional care may ensure your parents get what they need to live a comfortable life. This kind of care is most available through a nursing home.
While some level of care is available through in-home care, nursing homes offer a high level of personalization. In-home care may be sufficient while your parents are capable of taking care of themselves partially. Eventually, however, you may find they need a higher level of care.
Your parents will be well taken care of around the clock. You can rest assured knowing they are taking their medications, receiving the aid they need, and being encouraged to engage in fun, hobbies and activities.
Relieves Stress
Caretaker stress is a major challenge. If you are caring for an elderly parent on your own, it is likely that you feel exhausted, drained, and stressed. Caring for a loved one is physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding.
Many children of aging parents feel guilty putting their parents in nursing homes. If you have been caring for your parents, this decision may also spark feelings of failure. While this is a natural way to feel, it may also help to remember that professional caretakers have more resources and skills available to care for elderly people. It is a highly skilled and taxing profession, so of course you are tired trying to do it while also tending to the other responsibilities in your life.
When you choose to let go of caretaking responsibilities and move your parents into a nursing home, you regain the opportunity to be your parents’ family member and child first and foremost, rather than their caregiver. This gains you precious time that you can spend relaxing together and making memories.
Saves Money
Many children of elderly parents experience sticker shock when researching nursing homes. The comprehensive cost can sound like a high price upfront. However, you may find that compared to the costs of at-home care, nursing homes often offer a good value when considering the services they provide.
When considering nursing home options, be sure to ask questions about pricing. Some offer package deals, while others take a more a la carte approach to pricing. As you compare your options, you can consider your priorities in comparison to your budget and make an educated decision.
Copeland Oaks Assisted Living
Copeland Oaks is happy to answer any questions you may have about moving your parents into a nursing home or exploring assisted living options. Our beautiful 250-acre campus and full range of skilled services are catered to the needs of our senior residents. Copeland’s Continuum of Care model meets the changing needs of your loved ones with specialized plans for individuals and couples (and of course furry friends!). If you are interested in learning more about life at Copeland Oaks, please click here to contact us.