Moving an elderly parent into your home is a significant life change that requires careful planning and preparation. Ensuring a comfortable, safe, and welcoming environment is paramount to their well-being and your peace of mind. 

Here are some essential tips to help you prepare your home for this important transition.

Assess the Living Space

Start by choosing a room that is easily accessible, ideally on the ground floor, to minimize the need for stairs. If a ground-floor room isn’t available, consider installing a stairlift. Ensure doorways and hallways are wide enough to accommodate a walker or wheelchair if necessary. 

Furnish the room with a comfortable bed, preferably one that can be adjusted for ease of getting in and out. Consider a waterproof mattress protector as incontinence is more commonplace among older adults.

Safety First

Removing hazards is crucial for creating a safe environment. Clear the living area of tripping hazards such as loose rugs, electrical cords, and clutter. Install non-slip mats in the bathroom and other areas prone to moisture. 

Handrails and grab bars are essential in the bathroom, along staircases, and in other areas where additional support might be needed. Proper lighting, especially in pathways to the bathroom, can prevent falls, and night lights can help with nighttime navigation.

Bathroom Modifications

Consider replacing a bathtub with a walk-in shower for easier access. Install a shower chair and handheld showerhead to make bathing more manageable and safer. Raising the toilet seat or installing a toilet seat riser can make it easier for your parents to sit and stand.

Enhance Mobility

Flooring is an important consideration. Ensure floors are even and smooth, and if your parent uses a wheelchair, hardwood or tile flooring is easier to navigate than carpeting.

Arrange furniture to allow for easy movement throughout the house and avoid sharp-edged furniture that could cause injury in case of a fall.

Kitchen Considerations

In the kitchen, store frequently used items in lower cabinets or on countertops to minimize the need for reaching or bending. Use pull-out shelves or lazy Susans to make items more accessible. 

Consider appliances with safety features, such as automatic shut-off for stoves and ovens, and use an electric kettle instead of a stove-top kettle to reduce the risk of burns.

Health and Wellness

Make sure there is adequate space for any necessary medical equipment, such as oxygen tanks or mobility aids. Set up a medication management system to help keep track of prescriptions and dosages. 

Installing a medical alert system can provide peace of mind, knowing your parents can call for help if needed. Keep a list of emergency contacts and medical information easily accessible.

Emotional and Social Well-being

Creating a welcoming atmosphere is crucial for your parent’s emotional well-being. Involve them in decorating their new space to make them feel more at home and encourage them to bring personal items that have sentimental value. 

Facilitate social interactions by arranging visits from friends and family and look into community programs or senior centers where your parents can engage with others.

Financial and Legal Considerations

Plan for potential expenses, such as home modifications, increased utility usage, and medical costs. Explore financial assistance options, such as Medicare, Medicaid, or veteran benefits, that might be available. 

Ensure all necessary legal documents, such as power of attorney and healthcare directives, are in place, and discuss and document your parent’s wishes regarding medical care and end-of-life decisions.

In summary, welcoming an elderly parent into your home is a loving and compassionate decision that requires thorough preparation. By making thoughtful modifications to your living space and addressing safety, accessibility, and emotional well-being, you can create a comfortable and supportive environment for your parents. 

Open communication and careful planning will ensure a smooth transition and foster a positive, nurturing living arrangement for everyone involved.

Published By: Aize Perez