The Benefits of Moving an Elderly Parent into Your Home

At some point, perhaps after the loss of their partner, a health issue, or a change in mobility, many of us think about whether or not our parents can still live on their own. One option is helping them to move into a senior living community, but another popular option is having them move into our homes. Living with a parent again as an adult can have challenges, especially when it’s your roof they are living under, but it can also be a wonderful experience. Here’s a look at some of the benefits.

You’ll Save Money

Senior living communities are a great option, but they are expensive. Your loved one might have to pay for their care, and you might face some expenses too. Even paying for a carer to help them to live in their own home can be costly.
When they move in with you, you will need to consider the practicalities and expenses of the move itself. For example, you may need to hire movers if they are moving long-distance, and you should consider https://www.flyingangels.com/ if they fly and you can’t accompany them on the journey. But most of the costs will be one-offs.

It’s a Chance to Build a Better Relationship

Once we are adults, our relationship with our parents can become difficult to balance. When we see them for short visits, it’s easy to fall into old habits. We seek their approval, ask permission, and show off, they offer up directions and tell us what to do, and it can feel as though they are judging our every move.

When your parent moves in, you get a chance to build a new relationship as an adult, develop a loving friendship, and learn more about who you are as an individual outside of your roles as parent and child.

Better Health

Living alone can lead to a decline in health, hygiene, mobility, and socialization. Even if your parent is still fairly fit and healthy, they might struggle with motivation if they spend a lot of time alone. When they move in with you, you get a chance to support and encourage them. Simply spending time with them means you are more likely to notice health issues before it’s too late.

Improved Quality of Life

When older people live alone, their standards can slide. They might not spend as much time on things like cooking and cleaning if they are alone, which can affect their quality of life. Living with your family gives them purpose and joy, especially if you have children. This can improve their quality of life massively.

Childcare Help

If your parent is still in good health, having them live with you can give you access to childcare. Even the occasional school pick up, or a chance to go out once the kids are in bed can have a big impact on your life and happiness, and your children will prefer an evening with a grandparent to time with a strange babysitter.

Less Worry

As our parents get older, we start to worry about their health and wellbeing, especially if they are too far away for us to visit often. Living together can ease your worry and reduce your stress levels.
Living with a parent again can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly beneficial for you all. Make sure you are prepared and give your loved one a chance to settle in and you’ll soon start to reap the benefits.