Transitioning Aging Loved Ones to New Housing
As we know, moving can be stressful and usually chaotic. There are a whirlwind of things to plan for, and expenses rack up quickly. We definitely understand due to our business, but even more so as over the past couple weeks we’ve been helping a client with children who live out of town move their father to an assisted living community. Just this morning I picked him up and took him to his new home. It was stressful for us, much more so for the out-of-town children, but the greatest stress was felt by their father.
Not only have half of us at Paths Law Firm transitioned our own grandparents and parents, but I think we’ve seen it all when it comes to caring for elderly loved ones. We are experts in helping people manage moves to more senior conducive living, assisted living, or nursing homes. You don’t have to go through this alone. Our elder law attorneys and health care professionals are here to help.
Three quick reminders:
Step One: Make the decision
Deciding to move your loved one isn’t an easy feat, but despite how difficult it is, you shouldn’t hold off. Take the time to understand your loved ones needs for healthy living.
Know the signs
To keep things simple, all people need to be able to complete these six daily functions to be considered independent:
- Getting out of bed
- Toileting
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Eating
ALSO, pay attention to: Monetary problems, Isolation, Messy living area, Poorhygiene
Step Two: Make the Plan
Once the decision is made, you should make a detailed plan outlining your next steps. The more you plan, the better you can prepare. And the better you prepare, the easier the transition will be for everyone.
Find a community
Get advice
Know the types of facilities Nursing homes-
Assisted living. Independent living.
Create a budget
Get legal affairs in order, this at least includes:
- Wills or Trusts
- Asset Protection Steps
- Medicaid
- VA Benefits
- Guardianship, if necessary.
Step Three: Move
The final step to transition to a new home is the move itself. By this point everything else should be ready to go, and all that’s left is the move.
