Can I Care for My Loved One at Home?

Many adult children or family members of elderly loved ones ask this question every day. There are no definite answers as each person’s situation is different. However, you might consider some things when making these decisions. There are several options you may have, so you need to consider what these choices mean for you and your family.

Your Physical Ability

Making the decision to care for an elderly or physically disabled loved one is an incredible one to make. You must ensure that you are physically capable of doing so. If the loved one has limited mobility or ability to care for themselves, you cannot also be physically limited. There are mobility devices that may help, but you do not want to place yourself and your loved one at risk by being too weak to help. However, if you are capable and your loved one is still mobile themselves, this might be a great alternative to in-home care.

Your Other Obligations

If you have children who require constant supervision, trying to watch a disabled or feeble adult and children can be more than many people can handle. However, if your children are grown or teens who are capable of tending to themselves most of the time, you might be able to add a new person to care for in your home.

Your Schedule

If you work multiple jobs or work and take classes, you might be stretched too thin to take on a new responsibility. Likewise, if your loved one needs constant care and you work a full-time job, this may not be the best situation. If you are a stay-at-home parent or are able to stop working, you might have a good situation for caregiving.

Your Mental State

Taking care of your loved one is mentally taxing. You have to be prepared to make difficult decisions. Some of these decisions can be made initially, but they should all be reviewed with your loved one before they are not in a mental state to do so. If your loved one suddenly declines and you never had the chance to make these choices, you should be able to cope with making the best decision you can. You will not be killing your loved ones or doing them a disservice. Your decisions should be made with love and care for your loved one. Seeing a therapist during your time as a caregiver can help you when it becomes mentally too taxing.

Final Considerations

You should decide what is best for both you and your loved ones. Taking care of them at home can make them more comfortable and be very rewarding for you. You can also choose to use a facility if that is best for your family. Do not feel guilty for giving your loved one the best care possible at a facility. Their safety and well-being are vital to their longevity.