Dealing with an aging parent is something that everyone has to go through, but it can be extremely difficult. For your entire life, your parent was your rock and helped you overcome all of your minor and major struggles. Now, if they are having trouble with their memory, physical health, or just can’t perform simple tasks like they used to, it’s an entirely different dynamic. It’s now your responsibility to get them the help and care that they deserve so they can continue to be as healthy and happy as possible.
Assisted living communities
Thankfully, there are wonderful assisted living facilities located all over the country that can help struggling elderly individuals with everything from memory care to daily tasks. In fact, according to data from the American Health Care Association, there are 15,655 skilled nursing care centers across the United States.
These nursing centers are great for housing individuals who have disabilities or adults who either cannot or choose not to live independently. Nursing residences are similar to retirement communities, in the sense that facilities provide a group living environment and typically cater to an elderly population, but a lot more cognitive and health support is offering at these nursing facilities.
As of 2012, there were an estimated 713,300 people residing in these nursing facilities. Every state has its own definition of the term assisted living, as well as licensing agencies, and the national median monthly rate for staying in these communities is around $3,500.
Find the right place for your parents
If your parent or parents are fully on board and even suggesting relocating to these nursing homes, great! Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case and it can be quite difficult to approach these conversations with your elderly loved ones. And understandably so. It’s best to do some diligent research on a quality nursing facility and discuss all the advantages with your aging parent in a thoughtful, respectable, and careful manner.
Having your parent in a nursing home might feel strange at first, but you’ll soon realize that it’s best for both you and your parent. He or she will be able to spend time with new friends and will be taken care of by experienced medical professionals.
