Statistics from Caregiver Actions show approximately 66% of family caregivers are women with more than 37% having children or grandchildren under 18 years old living with them. 1.4 million children ages 8 to 18 provide care for an adult relative; 72% are caring for a parent or grandparent and 64% live in the same household as their care recipient.
Caregiving is stressful. Ironically, a caregiver feels guilty when a choice to transition a loved one to a Retirement Community is made. Could someone else do as good a job? Will their parent or loved one feel they are not important anymore? Is the caregiver thinking only of themselves?
Deciding for Senior Living
The choice to move a loved one to a Senior Living Community is frequently difficult. There are many factors to be considered when beginning the navigation of Independent, Assisted, Memory Care or Long-Term Care Communities. Transition Consultants who are non-biased provide insight and reassurance to facilitate a decision. Their knowledge and resources are invaluable. A Consultant knows the communities and as they build a relationship with their client are able to facilitate a skilled approach.
Children may believe it is their obligation to provide care for elderly parents but could have limited resources. Time, energy, emotional and even financial reserves are tapped. Health and mental acuity become personal concerns as caregivers tend to ignore their own needs while taking care of a parent.
Proactive Decision Making
The process of deciding to move a parent to Senior Living is a proactive one. Parents need to be assured there are many social, mental and physical opportunities provided by Senior Living establishments. Nutrition, support systems, and available medical staff are only a few. Senior Living communities have been designed to care for every type of resident. Trained non-medical and medical staff understand the health issues residents have and are always available to assist. Staffs create personal plans to include and engage each resident’s interests.
When a move is made a caregiver is more apt to have personal time, a predictable work schedule and resume their family roles. Times spent together with parents will not have the stress of caretaking.
Making a Smooth Transition
Include parents in the decision-making process as often as possible. Listen to feedback and expect compromises to be made. If you have enlisted the guidance and assistance of a Transition Consultant at the start of the journey you are one step ahead. A decision to move and the navigation of each step is extremely stressful and confusing when done without an educated guide.
Senior Living transitions are able to be smooth when everyone is on the same page and knows what to expect. Bridge to Better Living provides resources and information to alleviate stress and confusion. If you have a loved one needing to make a move or if you yourself are considering a transition into Senior Living, contact Bridge to Better Living. We are the experts you need for assistance and guidance. Bridge to Better Living knows the conversation and the importance of quality of life. We take Placement with Passion seriously.