My mother-in law is 92 years old and still lives at home. She has a caregiver come 2 days a week for 4 hours and receives meals on wheels two days a week. She is unsteady on her feet but can take care of herself. She needs extra help though because normal tasks are becoming harder for her to accomplish. Do we look into 24 hour home healthcare or assisted living?
The stress of my parents living in that 3 story house is unbelievable... every time the phone rings and it's their Caller ID, I fear the worse. I know it is their choice since they both are of clear mind [not sure about common sense any more].
I know I am eying the retirement village down the road for myself, in the next couple of years, if not sooner :)
Based on my experience, I think it is much easier to make the move for an elderly parent BEFORE it becomes unsafe for them. My mom has adjusted to her place and now accepts the fact that it was best for everyone involved. She understand that we were concerned for her safety and health, first and foremost.
My suggestion is to make the move to an independent or assisted living facility sooner than later. Do your research on the facility and make certain that it has a good rating. Find out about whether or not your parent can "age in place" so that they do not have to be moved again. And, maybe most importantly, get to know the staff and be a regular visitor. Your responsibility becomes one of advocate for your parent. When the staff know you are actively involved and understand your reasons for the move, they are helpful and kind.
Making new friends is a tall order. the bst you can hope for is that they find one or two friends to eat with regularly.
Sheba, dying at home?... not me... otherwise that room which was a nice bedroom will forever be known as the room that Aunt Terry had died in. I want to be remembered for my life, not the day I died.
I would discuss the matter with her doctor, the people coming at home now to help her, and certainly not forget to talk about it with HER. As long as she has no dementia of any kind, it is very wrong to take any decision without having discussed it with her. It is HER life. And as long as there is no danger, she has the right to out her opinion. Greetings