When asked, most elderly individuals wish to remain in their homes until they pass. People want to spend their final years living independently and comfortably in their own space. Unfortunately, the reality is that many people cannot live alone in their waning years and require assistance. Every older adult requires individual consideration regarding their specific situation; some might wish to stay home, which might not be possible. If you are considering hiring a home healthcare worker for your parents, our firm suggests having a Tampa elder law attorney review your parent’s exact situation before finalizing any decisions.
All facets of the health of the senior must be considered when planning for future care needs. In addition to an elder law attorney discussing the options with your parents, you may need to bring in geriatric care coordinators and your parents’ healthcare team to determine what is truly best on a long-term basis. Ensuring their home is safe for them might also require modifications, which can result in unforeseen expenses. While home healthcare offers many benefits, care can become expensive, and many cannot afford that as time progresses.
After these consultations, if your parents can stay home and hire help, make sure to schedule times to check in and re-evaluate periodically as situations can change. There are many benefits to elder adults remaining in their homes including independence and comfort, which leads to continued health and happiness. But being home can also contribute to loneliness and isolation. Ensuring your parent has plenty of time and the ability to continue their social life easily and attend the things they enjoy can help in the end.
Finally, as your parents’ care needs grow, staying at home may no longer be feasible. That’s why it’s also crucial to have a backup plan in place for when this occurs, so the move to a senior care facility is as smooth as possible for them.
If you are interested in speaking to a Tampa elder law attorney regarding your parents’ care and how to pay for the services your family may need, please call (813) 438-8503 and schedule a free consultation.