-
Step 1
Talk to your parents first. If they are in relatively good health and mentally clear, ask them what their preference is. This would probably vary depending on whether both your parents are moving into a retirement home or just one. Find out if they have a preference for location, type of residence and even how much independence they will have.
-
Step 2
Consider a retirement community if your parents are independent and active. Organized as small enclosed towns, retirement communities allow residents to live independently, in their own homes, while still having access to 24 hours of security, medical aid, general support and help.
-
Step 3
Visit as many retirement homes as you can to understand the differences between them and see the type of services offered. Some retirement homes will cover everything needed, while others require you to pay extra for certain services, such as night care or private rooms.
-
Step 4
Choose a home within driving distance of your own place of residence. This will allow you to visit often and check on your parents. While you might trust the personnel now, it’s important that you are involved in the big decisions and that you can drop by once in a while to make sure everything is ok.
-
Step 5
Make sure you can afford the place in the long run. Full-care retirement homes will cost you as much as renting an apartment in the center of the city. Medicare, other types of HMOs or private health insurances will usually cover at least part of the care, but you should plan for it in advance, as it may take months for the approval to go through.
