by Carona Micheal Davis

Created on: March 16, 2009   Last Updated: March 18, 2009

When making a decision to move a parent into the home the first thought that comes to mind may be, "He/She took care of me so, I will do the same.", while on the other hand some may think, "How can I handle taking care of a parent, myself and a family?". While these are valid views to have we must remember several things,

1) If possible, it is our duty to look after our parents even if it means moving them into our homes.

2) Do not feel guilty if you are not equipped monetarily or emotionally to take care of an elderly parent.

Most of us have seen our parents go the extra yard while making sacrifice after sacrifice to make sure that we have everything that we need (even in our adult years) and now, the shoe is on the other foot and it is you who need to make the sacrifices. This is common in many cultures and societies and is even looked upon as good family manner or honorable to take in an aging parent.

Sometimes feeling guilt makes you bite off more than you can chew and by attempting to take care of a parent you end up straining your marriage, children and your money as well. If you intend on taking in an elderly parent it is just like any important life decision in your life such as, buying a new home or going to college. You would have to plan for it. Some ways that you can plan in the event that an elderly parent moves in with you,

-Save money

-Make sure you have a home large enough to assist in the living arrangement. The parent may need wheelchair access or a home with special amenities that will aid him/her in getting around the home.

-Stay in contact with the parent, this would include having knowledge of the parent's financial matters, medical history, bills, and other business that you would need to maintain if the parent were to move in with you. This would make room in preparation of any money you would need to pay out for the elderly parent.

Saving money would insure that whatever funds are needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle for your parent(s) while living with you will be available when needed insuring a smoother transition into the home. Most adult children worry about money, time and the effects that moving an elderly parent in the home would have on their own family life which are fair concerns and should be discussed with significant others and children that will more than likely be lending a hand in taking care of the parent.

A supportive family and planning ahead can make taking care of an elderly parent less stressful for you, your family and the parent as well.

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