Are your parents or grandparents moving in with you? Here's how to prepare your home for moving in!
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If the global pandemic has taught us everything that we never know what tomorrow will bring and that it is good to have our family members close by in case something goes wrong. If you have older parents or an aunt or grandparent, or someone else in your life who needs more help around the house and around you, you may plan to have them move in with you soon. If so, it is important to prepare your home for your arrival.
Declutter
As elderly relatives are often unsteady on their feet, you want to remove as many tripping hazards and obstacles to getting around your home as possible. You may also need to downsize your belongings to free up the guest room or den, guest house, etc. for them to move in.
spend time clean up to make your property clearer and allow you to do a much better cleaning job. Since you have elderly people who often have more vulnerable immune systems, it is important that the place is as clean as possible.
Set up a room on the first floor
You will likely need a spot on the first floor for your parents to spend their time in as many seniors have back, hip, knee, or other mobility issues that mean stairs are or at least will be a problem in the future. Evaluate your property keeping security and logistics in mind to see where is the best place to accommodate your loved ones and if you need to do any renovation work such as building a home. B. add a bathroom or a kitchenette, etc.
Since when they move in is a big adjustment not only for you but also for your older parents, try to make the area more comfortable by bringing some of their furniture with you. You will likely have to help them sell or donate many of their pieces, but adding some of their favorite items like a comfortable chair and bed can make a huge difference in how quickly and easily they settle in.
Add mobility aids
You may also need to add multiple handrails, a ramp or two, and other aids to make your property suitable for loved ones. Many people need a sit and shower, and you may need to install a new or remodeled toilet so your parents won't have trouble getting up when they're done with their business. A raised toilet with armrests is usually the most practical option.
You may also need to install a TV and other devices with accessories or features for the hearing impaired, or choose large-screen remote controls or other parts for the visually impaired. Talk to your parents about what they need and how they move around and currently live for some insight into what is required for your home.
Install heating and cooling options
Older people feel cold and sometimes heat more than younger generations and more than ever before. Therefore, put in place appropriate heating and cooling options to ensure people's wellbeing and reduce the risk of them getting sick from temperature issues.
Depending on where you live and what the weather is like, it may be enough to Add some remote controlled modern ceiling fans to the rooms and some plug-in heaters. Alternatively, you may need a more complete reversible air conditioner or fire or gas heating products.
Use more lighting
Sufficient lighting in the house and outdoors is also necessary so that your older parents can find their way around safely, especially in the dark or at dusk. You may want to install some dimmer switches and add lights in areas that you haven't considered before, such as the bathroom.
Make room for pets
To ensure that your parents have a happy transition to your home, be open minded and, if possible, give them space so they can bring their pets. Nobody needs to be happy to house a cat, dog, or other animal in a shelter or elsewhere if they don't have to, and your parents are sure to get very upset if they have to say goodbye to their fur, feathers, or other scaled friend. Help them maintain a positive attitude by installing the necessary features for the animal instead, such as: B. An inside door for pets and a fenced area outside.
Use external support
Living with a parent again can be a challenge, especially if they have special needs like mobility problems or dementia etc. Don't feel like you have to do everything by yourself. Talk to your parents about a budget for outside assistance such as cleaning, food preparation or delivery, driving, shopping, dog walking, and any other assistance that could make a positive difference.
The longer you think about and plan to move a parent into your home, the smoother the transition should be for everyone involved.
