Most senior citizens generally prefer to stay in their own homes as they age. However, when health issues arise, it may be time to consider assisted living, whether it’s in a retirement community or at home with an adult child.

Assisted living often marks the beginning of a long-term care plan for seniors, followed by respite care if needed. In-home care can be a cost-effective way to keep aging parents comfortable, but it can also be stressful for the entire family.

Hiring a professional caregiver to come into the home is sometimes the best option for everyone involved. Seniors typically need more medical attention than younger adults, as aging bodies become more susceptible to diseases and conditions like arthritis, Alzheimer’s, cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Regular checkups and screenings for conditions like colon and breast cancer are important.

Some elderly individuals need extra help to maintain their quality of life. If a senior struggles with daily activities like bathing and dressing, in-home care services might be necessary. These services can also include more intensive care like wound care, physical therapy, and meal preparation. A manual wheelchair can also be useful.

In-home care is generally cheaper than nursing home care and allows seniors to stay in their own homes. If you’re considering this option for an elderly parent, research various agencies that offer these services, including their experience, rates, and policies on overtime and cancellations.

It’s important to remember that in-home care is often a temporary solution. Eventually, most seniors will need nursing home care or another form of long-term care. However, in-home care can provide a break for caregivers and ensure seniors receive necessary care while living independently for as long as possible.

If your elderly parent is in a nursing home or assisted living facility, visit them regularly to monitor their physical and mental health and ensure they are well cared for. Also, keep in touch by phone or email to spot any changes in their condition.

Determining the level of care an elderly parent needs can be challenging. When in doubt, it’s better to provide more care than less. It’s usually safer to be cautious.

These are just a few important considerations when caring for older adults. For more information, consult with a physician or another medical professional.