The news these days is full of stories about boomerang kids who leave the nest but then return home to live with parents. Just as headline-worthy is the opposite of that trend: parents moving in with their adult children.
When an older parent moves in with their adult child, a whole new family dynamic is created. It’s a wonderful opportunity for grandkids to get to know their grandparents and for everyone to build closer bonds. It can also save the caregiver a lot of time and energy not having to drive so much to check in on parents.
Considerations to Ponder Before Making the Change
There’s a flipside to everything, of course. And there are definitely some things to consider before moving a parent in with you.
Here are some of the most common issues experienced by people who’ve already traveled down this road.
Space Requirements
Your home may work for you now but if your mother or father moves in, your space needs will change dramatically. There are a variety of solutions to this problem, including adding a master suite.
The average cost of a mid-range master suite addition in Michigan was $115,810 in 2016. Obviously, this expense must be carefully considered by you and your spouse. A parent may –or may not— be able to help with the cost of remodeling, so it’s a solution the whole family should discuss together.
Some homes are simply too small to accommodate one more adult. A family might end up moving to a larger home.
Safety Concerns
Even if you have space for your aging parent in your home, you may need to make a few modifications. Bathrooms are a prime area of focus when a parent moves in. At the very least, safety features like grab bars and a non-step shower should be installed. Some older adults will need modified toilets. You’ll want to complete a safety audit of your home in order to determine exactly what upgrades you’ll need to make.
Privacy Issues
You should also consider privacy when making a decision.
Here’s where the master suite comes in again. Sometimes called ‘in-law suites’, these usually include a bedroom, bathroom, sitting area, and sometimes an efficiency or full kitchen. This allows your senior loved one to maintain privacy and independence and to feel that they aren’t placing too much of a burden on you and your family.
Daily Living
Finally, think about how your days will go with a parent now living with you.
- Will you divide chores?
- Will you eat together?
- Who controls the TV?
- What about pets?
- Will you socialize together?
- Will you take vacations together?
- How will you manage bills?
- What if you need to go away?
- What will your parent(s) do all day?
- How will you handle special dietary needs?
- Will they hire a home care aide while you’re at work?
- What happens if they start telling your kids what to do?
Short-Term Respite at Heritage Senior Living Communities
Respite care can help when your family wants some private time or if you will be taking a vacation. Your senior loved one can stay at an assisted living community on a short-term basis.
Call or stop by one of our Michigan and Indiana communities for a tour and to have all of your questions about respite care and assisted living answered!