As our parents age, many of us feel it is our duty to care for them, especially when they are no longer able to live on their own. An option you might have considered is moving your aging parents to live with you in your own home.
Yet, how would you know if this is a suitable arrangement for you and your family?
Here are some essential questions that you should ask yourself.
1. Caregiving aspect – What kind of care does your ageing parent need?
How much assistance can you provide?
Are they relatively healthy and independent? Or do they have a progressive health condition?
If your ageing parents require minimal care, you can take it as a good opportunity for them to bond more with other family members. However, if he/she is someone who requires constant care or a specific care routine and you are not able to fulfil this, you might want to consider other options such as hiring a caregiver or sending your loved ones to assisted living.
2. Financial aspect – What expenses are involved?
Will there be a need for additional expenses to provide care?
How will those expenses be paid for?
How will you adjust your budget when there is a change in your work situation or income levels?
Having an additional family member living with you might add to your expenses, especially if they are not planning to contribute to the household expenses. In addition, if you become a full-time caregiver for your parent, you may need to take time-off from work, resulting in a lost in income.
However, there are also caregiver grants and subsidies available that can help ease your finances! To find out more, you can head to: https://www.moh.gov.sg/cost-financing/healthcare-schemes-subsidies/caregiver-grants-subsidies.
3. Safety aspect – Is your home suitable for your loved one?
Is your home safe for an elderly? Do you live in a multi-story house? Are there any fall risks?
Is there enough room if your parent was to move in?
For your ageing parent to live with you, you need to ensure that the living conditions are appropriate for them. For instance, you may need to consider doing home modifications such as installing ramps, grab bars or a shower chair in the bathroom, which will all add up to additional costs.
4. Relationship aspect – How will it impact the rest of your family members?
Does your parent get along with you and the rest of your family members?
Does your parent have a pet? Will you be able to care for it as well?
For most, caring for their ageing parent is fulfilling as they give back their love to them. Nonetheless, while you may feel obligated to care for your ageing parent, it is vital that you also consider whether everyone will be able to live harmoniously in the long run.
Remember to take into account about how your family members will feel about your ageing loved ones moving in. if you have children, it can be beneficial if they are already old enough to help out with household chores as well as assisting your parents when required. Demonstrate to your children the importance of filial piety. Open family discussion
Remember that getting your parents to move in may not be the only option.
Lastly, before making the final decision of whether to care for your elderly parents at home, talk to their doctor and other health professionals for their advice from a medical point of view.