When you’re busy with your own life it can be difficult to take stock of how your older parents or relatives are coping on their own.
If you noticed during the Christmas period that they don’t seem to be as well presented and on top of things as usual, it might be time to have a discussion about downsizing and home care.
There are some clear signs it’s time for an older person or couple to downsize. If you have noticed any of the following at your loved one’s home or when they are out and about, it’s a good time to start a discussion about next steps:
- Navigational difficulties: If your relative finds it challenging to move around their current living space, especially if there are stairs or architectural barriers, it might be time to consider a more accessible environment.
- Mobility issues: Difficulty getting in and out of chairs or to and from the bathroom could signal that your loved one needs a change in circumstances.
- Property struggles: If your relative is having difficulty maintaining the inside of the home and garden, switching to a smaller home might be a good idea.
- Financial burden: Maintaining a larger property can be costly, and if that burden is causing issues, then it might be time for your loved one to sell and free up some cash.
- Neglected rooms: If there are rooms in the house that are sitting empty and neglected it may be time to find a buyer who will fill the home with family and love.
- Limited social opportunities: It’s not all about the house. Your loved one may be struggling to get out and about and may be missing having friends to speak with.
- Accessibility challenges: Difficulty accessing local amenities like shops and doctor’s offices due to location may contribute to feelings of isolation and contribute to health issues.
- Challenges in self-care: If your loved one is struggling with dressing, keeping clothes clean and personal grooming, they don’t necessarily have to move house but a home carer may be helpful.
- Proximity to medical facilities: Being close to a hospital becomes more important as time goes by. It gives a sense of security and can literally be a life-saver.
- Feelings of loneliness: Feelings of loneliness or emotional overwhelm in the current living situation may signal a need for a more emotionally supportive environment.
- Family connection: People move around, and your loved one’s home may no longer be so close to family members. Relocating can restore a sense of connection.
- Dependence on others: Are you getting constant phone calls to solve problems? Increasing dependence on others for assistance may suggest the need for a living situation that facilitates such support.
Broaching the subject of downsizing
You might have read through this list and realised you are nodding in response to every item. The next challenge is to bring up the subject of downsizing and arranging care.
Many older people struggle with change so try not to give ultimatums and instructions. Ask them how they are feeling and coping as a way of ‘sowing the seeds’. You might want to bring over some brochures for more suitable homes. In other cases, a visit to your GP together can be a good place to start as this professional will understand the pathways to home care so your loved one gets support but can continue to live independently.
If you get pushback, don’t be disheartened. It’s not easy for people to admit they need help or agree to move out of their beloved home. The important thing is to get the conversation started. Convincing a loved one to relocate can take some time, so be patient and try to remind them of all the positives involved with a change.
Support options for seniors
Your loved one has several options:
First, to relocate to a smaller home or unit that is all on one level and easier to manage.
There is also the choice to live in a retirement village with staff on call and plenty of organised social activities. This can bring an exciting new lease on life.
Then there is the option to access home care. It may be possible to access a Government-funded package that includes visits from a cleaner, gardener, nurse and/or allied health professional. The cost depends on your loved one’s assets and income but your GP can point you in the direction of an ACAT, which is an Aged Care Assessment.
While saying goodbye to the family home can be difficult, it opens the door to living comfortably and well in later life.
IMPORTANT: Any tips or advice contained in this article are general in nature and you should always seek professional advice from expert advisers about your individual situation before making significant financial decisions.
