The Problem
Frequently, serious accidents and illnesses cause elderly folks to relocate to care facilities.
These accidents and illness result from improper care and supervision. As elderly folks mental and physical capabilities decline their ability and willingness to communicate and fully understand, their care needs often decline as well.
Moreover, loved ones often feel a tremendous amount of guilt about moving their parent or spouse into a care facility.
As a result, an even more challenging situation arises. When an accident occurs due to improper care and supervision, you and your loved one are left unprepared and in crisis.
Breaking It Down
The Accident vs. The Planned Relocation
The Accident: In this scenario, your loved one will sustain an injury or health issue. At a local hospital, the doctor will tell them they cannot go home.
In this scenario, everything is rushed, resulting in fewer choices, increased stress, and added expenses. You will not be able to control the timing, and thus, have to take action whether or not you have the time, support, or knowledge.
The Planned Relocation: In this case, you see the precarious situation and clearly assess present risks. Thereafter, you educate yourself on possible options so you are able to make a more informed decision with your parent’s best interest in mind. You are able to plan and execute a move on your terms, and your time.
The Solution
The solution is simple! Evaluate your parent’s current state and determine a relocation timeline using the checklist below!
If you answer yes to many of these questions, chances are it is time to relocate your loved one to a care facility before a catastrophic event occurs!
1. Mobility Issues
- Has your loved one fallen recently?
- Is there current home easy to navigate?
- Can your loved one use personal emergency devices?
2. General Safety Issues
- If your loved one smokes, do you see burn holes in clothing or bedding?
- Have appliances accidents occurred recently, such as leaving the stove on?
- If your loved one uses oxygen, are there dangers related to smoking or open flames?
- Does your loved one get lost and forget their address or phone number?
3. Health Issues
- Do you discover full or unopened prescription bottles?
- Is your loved one able to follow the correct dosage of their medication?
- Do you find rotten food in the fridge?
- Has your loved one suffered recent weight loss, or refused to eat?
- Is your loved unable to maintain adequate hygiene?
4. Care Management Issues
- Have your caregiving duties caused you to lose sleep, feel anxious, miss work?
- Do you personally have enough support?
- Are you resentful, burdened, or depressed?
While the decision is never easy, here at Spada Homes we believe all elderly folks should receive the highest care so they can live their happiest lives. Although, your loved one’s home may feel comfortable and familiar if it is dangerous the risks outweigh the benefits! Make the move on your own time, with your loved one’s best interest in mind!
