When Your Aging Parents Can No Longer Live Alone…And What to Do About It
For adult children, the reality that their parent’s health is declining and they can no longer live alone is not always easy to face. Sometimes it’s a gradual reality and other times it’s a specific event such as a fall in their home or a driving accident. Independent living, also referred to as aging in place, is not only what seniors would prefer but studies have shown that the emotional and psychological benefits are tremendous. Unfortunately this isn’t always an option.
Putting off the conversation with your parents about the practicality as well as safety of living alone could place you in a situation where a decision becomes reactionary. Statistics show that one out of three adults over 65 fall each year. About half (53%) of the older adults who are discharged from the hospital for fall-related hip fractures will experience another fall within six months. They are the leading cause of non-injury death, non-fatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma. These injuries can hinder the ability to live independently and, in fact, increases the risk of early death. Sadly the downward spiral can be rapid.
While your parents might be in denial as to their failing health and limited mobility, making a plan before it is a crisis situation will make life easier for everyone. For anyone who hasn’t looked into the cost of assisted living, it’s a shock. Assisted living facilities with the other required services can exceed $50,000 per year, per person. The federal Medicare program does not cover the costs of assisted living facilities or the care they provide. In some states, Medicaid may pay for the service component of assisted living. Nursing home care is even more expensive. These costs can quickly lead to financial devastation for a family.
Because of these skyrocketing costs and the desire for seniors to stay out of assisted living facilities, multi-generational dwellings are on the rise. Practical Assisted Living Solutions (PALS) is a company that provides completely handicap-accessible and universal-designed modular units that can be attached on to your home. They can be installed in 6 – 8 weeks and cost as little as $70,000. They are matched perfectly to the exterior of the existing home and even have their own entrance. The units host a bedroom, bathroom, living area and kitchenette that are all custom designed for the individual’s physical capabilities.
Acknowledging that our parents need our help is a turning point in the parent/child relationship. Being prepared and having a plan will help in this transition.
Here is the Original Article written by Alison Rhodes-Jacobson of SafetyMomSeniorSolutions.com
