How to Relocate an Aging Loved One Who Is Unwilling to Move

Talking to an aging parent about the need to move in with your family is one of the most difficult conversations you can have regarding long-term care. Your parent may refuse to move for many reasons, but the loss of independence is one of the most common concerns. While you know a move is the best decision for your loved one, you should expect to encounter a few challenges along the way. Use these tips to ease the transition and make it easier for everyone to adjust to the new living arrangements. 

Enlist the Help of Others

Conversations about moving can often become heated between senior parents and their adult children. If you find this is the case, consider having someone your parent respects discuss the benefits of moving in with your family. Members of the clergy, doctors, and neighbors are all potential sources who could help your parent develop a positive perspective. 

A professional caregiver can help your loved one handle the physical and emotional challenges involved in moving to a new home. When researching agencies that provide home care service, Huntsville, AL, families are usually looking for flexible care plans, compassionate and highly trained caregivers, and 24/7 availability. Whether you need respite care to take a break from your caregiving duties or your senior loved one needs around-the-clock assistance at home, you can rely on Home Care Assistance.

Encourage Bringing Mementos

Downsizing is usually unavoidable when combining two homes, but it’s still possible for your parent to add a few personal touches to his or her new home. If there’s space, consider moving in your loved one’s favorite chair or bookshelves. Smaller living areas can still usually accommodate family photos and other types of memorabilia that will make your parent feel comfortable and at home in your house. 

Offer Reassurance

Seniors often worry they’ll be a burden while living with their families. Help your loved one understand he or she is a valuable member of the family, and make sure to include him or her in your family activities. It can also be beneficial to arrange for a professional caregiver to manage the more personal aspects of your loved one’s care, such as bathing and dressing, if assistance is necessary. 

When considering in-home care, families should make sure their senior loved ones have the resources they need to maintain their independence and remain healthy. Trusted in-home care professionals can assist seniors with daily tasks like cooking, bathing, and exercise, and they can also encourage them to focus on healthier lifestyle habits.

Keep Communication Positive

As your parent prepares to move, he or she may still resist or experience moments of negativity. When this happens, return the conversation to a positive one by reminding him or her of the good things that living together will bring. By living under one roof, your family can bond while ensuring each person has opportunities to enjoy better health and happiness. 

For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Huntsville, AL, Home Care Assistance is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break. If you need professional home care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (256) 716-9940.