How to Make Your Senior Loved One Feel at Home When They Move In

Transitioning from living at home to living with a loved one will no doubt be a challenge for your senior loved one. However, there are ways you can make the experience less stressful — and your home more suitable for multigenerational living. Here’s how to make your elderly family member feel welcome and comfortable in your house.

Think About Remodeling for Safety

When an older family member comes to live with you, mobility challenges can be a concern. You should consider remodeling your bathroom to meet your senior loved one’s needs. To avoid DIY disasters, think about hiring a bathroom designer to spearhead the project.

Keep in mind that you can expect to pay around $5,000 on average for a bathroom remodel. Of course, the exact cost depends on the extent of the changes you want. Common renovations for accessibility — such as ADA compliant bathrooms — include features like grab bars on the wall, an accessible shower or a seating area in the bath, and non-slip flooring to prevent falls. Age in Place also recommends bathroom fixes like toilets of adequate height, room to maneuver within the room, and an adjustable shower head to promote independence.

Figure Out Storage Ahead of Time

While you might be struggling to make room in your home for your elderly loved one, your heart is no doubt in the right place. And part of smoothing over the transition of the move is providing as much security as possible for your family member. That can mean hanging onto items both big and small, even if you don’t see the purpose for them at face value. According to researchers, attachments to cherished possessions can signify a meaningful life. In one survey, a lack of a “cherished possession” correlated with lower “life satisfaction scores.” In short, personal possessions are meaningful in many ways, especially to seniors in their golden years.

You will want to accommodate as much as you can, so thinking ahead and planning out storage space is a good idea. You could rent a storage unit, but costs can quickly add up for offsite facilities. In contrast, adding a steel building to your property can be cheaper and provide more room. Onsite storage is also much more accessible, allowing your loved one to visit their must-keep items as necessary. Cost-effectiveness is a highlight, but so is utility — you can always use the storage unit for other items once your family member no longer lives with you.

Take Gradual Steps (Together)

Experts for senior care recommend starting the moving process as early as possible. The Institute on Aging, for example, notes that being patient and maintaining your loved one’s involvement are crucial. After all, you don’t want to make them feel rushed or stressed about the move. Taking steps to prepare them emotionally and physically can help.

Because older adults often struggle with physical tasks, the act of packing can be difficult. Working out an action plan together can let their voice be heard without requiring physical prep work. After all, older adults are particularly susceptible to falls and are likely to have chronic health problems as well as sensory loss. So, be careful not to coddle your loved one, but also don’t expect too much during the move.

Plan for Independence

Another vital step in preparing your home and family for a senior loved one to move in is discussing boundaries. AARP recommends having a family meeting and establishing guidelines for your loved one’s move and new life with you.

For example, everyone should agree on how to handle mealtimes, household responsibilities, and the need for privacy and alone time. Children in the home should understand how to help their senior family member without stepping on any toes.

Expenses are another factor you need to assess. Beyond remodeling costs, Consumer Reports highlights financial considerations such as potentially complex tax scenarios, income reductions, and support expenses you must think about.

The truth is that moving a senior family member into your home can be immensely rewarding. It can also be a challenge to navigate. However, with the right mindset and game plan, you can minimize complications and start living a more fruitful life together.

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