Looking after your senior parent or another relative is a very noble thing to do, but it isn’t something that should be taken lightly. You need to consider many things before you agree to take on a responsibility like this, as it can be very challenging at times, particularly if they need a specific type of care. While you might think you have to do this, make sure you are considering these key points before you start making plans to bring your elderly relative into your home and become their caregiver.
- What Kind of Care Do They Need?
If they need help with medication management, are suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s, or have another complicated illness, you might not be able to give them the quality of care they need. You could always hire healthcare specialists to come and help you care for them at home. Your relative might also be suffering from a terminal illness, in which case using at-home hospice in the final stages of their illness might be necessary. You can find out more about what to expect from this kind of care by looking at this hospice in San Diego County, CA – or find one in your specific area.
- Is Your Home Suitable?
It might take more than having a spare bedroom that they can have, especially if they have limited mobility or find it difficult to get in and out of the bathtub or shower. Even if you don’t need to modify them now, there might come a time when you do need things like a stairlift, support bars, wider doorways, etc., to help make it a safer living environment for them. Think about whether your home can have these modifications done and if this is something you would be happy to have in your house.
- Other Members of the Household
If you don’t live alone, you will also have to consider the needs of the other members of your household. Bringing your senior relative to live with you and act as their caregiver will have an impact on your kids, partner, or whoever else resides in your home, and it’s only fair that you consult with them before you make any decisions. It is their living space, too, after all, and if they are uncomfortable with having your senior relative live at the house with them, you need to respect their concerns.
- How Will This Affect Your Wellbeing?
As mentioned previously, a lot of people might feel they have to care for an elderly relative, and if you are comfortable with this, that is fine. However, it is important to recognize and respect your boundaries, as caring for an elderly relative can be physically, mentally, and emotionally draining at times. If you are concerned that you will struggle to cope with the responsibility, remember that you don’t have to put yourself in that position. Perhaps speak to your other relatives and see if you can work out a support system so that you don’t feel overwhelmed, or perhaps see if someone else is happy to take this on instead of you.
Caring for an elderly relative can be a rewarding experience, but it doesn’t come without its hardships. Before you commit to doing this, make sure you have thought about the points above and be honest with yourself about whether it is the right choice for you.
