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Costs. Can you afford more help in the home or full-time living at a care facility? Are repairs or home modifications an option? What insurance or other coverage is available? Does your loved one have long-term care insurance? What does that cover?
Quality of life. Are you and your loved one isolated or lonely? Do you need more connection, community or social activity?
Proximity to loved ones. Do family members, children or close friends live nearby? If you move, who will visit?
Emotional factors. Did you promise that you’ d never move your loved one into a nursing home? Did you vow“ Till death do us part?” Does considering a move for your loved one make you feel guilty?
Care partner well-being. Are you struggling physically or emotionally, or feeling overwhelmed or burned out? Are you managing in the moment but concerned you may begin to struggle soon? Do you need more help?
Understanding Care Options
There are many options for increased or expanded care. Some bring more care into the home, while others involve moving to facilities that provide more hands-on, around-the-clock care.
Note that while experiences vary by state and insurance coverage, most of these services come with an out-of-pocket cost.
Home Modifications
+ An occupational therapist can conduct a home safety evaluation.
+ Ramps, stair lifts and shower grab bars increase safety and accessibility..
+ Arrange Arranging a bedroom and full bathroom on the first floor eliminates the need to navigate stairs.
Paid Caregivers
+ Professional or paid caregivers provide personal care, like bathing, dressing, toileting and administering medications. Some offer lifestyle support, like companionship or light housekeeping.
Other In-home Care Professionals
+ Visiting nurses measure vital signs and address medical needs like medication management.
+ Physical or occupational therapists provide structured exercises and tools to help with movement, balance and other daily activities.
+ Speech therapists provide exercises and tools to help with speaking clearly and swallowing safely.
Community Programs
+ Adult day centers and senior programs offer recreation, exercise and social activities. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for information on meal delivery and medical transportation services.
Respite Care
+ In-home respite care offers short periods of assistance to give the primary care partner a break for a few hours or days at a time.
+ Residential or facility-based respite centers offer short term stays( one night, a weekend or several weeks).
Finding the Right Out-of-Home Care for Your Loved One
Many people say they never want to move outside the home. That’ s normal and understandable. Sometimes, though, remaining at home becomes untenable due to symptom progression or safety concerns. Remember: everyone’ s Parkinson’ s is different and not everyone with Parkinson’ s needs long-term care. If issues arise, it may be time to consider moving your loved one to a setting that is better equipped to provide the care they need.
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