Caring for an aging parent at home is a heartfelt decision that can bring families closer together. However, without careful preparation, it can also lead to unexpected stress, financial strain, and safety concerns. Many adult children underestimate the level of care their parents will need, and without proper planning, the transition can be overwhelming. At Vick Law, we help families prepare for these changes—both legally and financially—so that caregiving remains a fulfilling experience, rather than a burden.
Key Steps to Prepare for a Parent Moving In
1. Assess the Level of Care Needed
Before welcoming a parent into your home, determine their specific care needs. Will they need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and cooking? Do they have medical conditions requiring frequent monitoring or medication management? Consulting with a healthcare provider, elder law attorney, or care specialist can help clarify what level of support will be necessary.
2. Modify Your Home for Safety and Accessibility
Older adults face increased fall risks, making it essential to create a safe and accessible living environment. Consider the following adjustments:
✔ Install grab bars in bathrooms near toilets and showers.
✔ Use non-slip mats on tile and wood floors.
✔ Create a bedroom on the first floor to eliminate the need for stairs.
✔ Widen doorways to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs.
✔ Improve lighting with motion-sensor nightlights to prevent falls at night.
✔ Add ramps to entryways if stairs are an obstacle.
These small home modifications can make a big difference in ensuring your parent’s independence and safety.
3. Establish Legal and Financial Plans
Taking on the responsibility of caregiving also means managing your parent’s legal and financial affairs. Without proper planning, unexpected expenses, medical emergencies, or disputes over decision-making could arise.
Key Documents to Update:
📌 Financial Power of Attorney: Allows a trusted individual to manage finances and pay bills if your parent becomes incapacitated.
📌 Healthcare Proxy & Advance Directives: Designates a decision-maker for medical care and outlines end-of-life preferences.
📌 Updated Will or Trust: Ensures assets are protected and distributed according to their wishes.
📌 Medicaid & Long-Term Care Planning: Determines eligibility for government benefits and how to pay for future care costs.
4. Set Boundaries and Manage Family Dynamics
Living with a parent can impact family routines and relationships. To maintain balance, set clear expectations regarding caregiving duties, privacy, and financial contributions. If multiple family members are involved, establish a plan for sharing responsibilities so that caregiving does not fall entirely on one person.
Preparing for the Future: A Proactive Approach
Caring for a parent at home is a deeply meaningful decision—but it requires thoughtful preparation. From modifying your home for safety to updating legal and financial plans, taking the right steps today ensures a smooth transitionand long-term stability.
At Vick Law, our wheelhouse is helping families navigate estate planning, elder law, and Medicaid planning. If you're preparing to move a parent into your home, schedule a consultation with our team today. Together, we’ll create a plan that protects your loved one’s future—and yours.
📞 Call Vick Law at 317-884-3133 or CLICK HERE to schedule your consultation.
Reference: AgingCare “Preparing for a Parent Living with You”
