The Approach
Research shows that older Americans prefer to live independently in their own homes; but you and your parents or family members probably have different ideas about what this means.
Here are ideas that could help develop into conversation when discussing the future with your parents, friends or family members; and what kind of help they will need or want in order to remain financially comfortable in their own home:
- Be positive, allow your parents or family members to make their own decisions and resist the temptation to push any issues unless their safety or health is in jeopardy. Ask you parents or family about what is important to them and the type of assistance they would prefer to allow them to stay in their home as long as possible.
- Focus on their needs and worries about their current and future living situation. Talk about modifications to their home that can be made to help make them more comfortable.
- Keep up to date on the status of their health. Are they able to afford their medications? How often do they need to fill prescriptions? Ask your parents/family members about their ability to manage their daily healthcare.
- Make sure they can afford to pay their expenses. It can be difficult to get involved in your parents or family members finances; but it’s equally important to ensure they can afford to eat well and pay their bills.
