Care-giving , though immensely rewarding, can be extremely taxing both physically and emotionally. If your care-giving duties have you feeling overwhelmed, irritable, or painfully exhausted, it is essential that you take a timeout before there is nothing left give. A little ‘me’ time goes a long way, and when you take proper care of yourself, the positive impact is far reaching.
Are you among the 15 million Americans who devote their time, energy, and money to caring for an elderly loved one? You love your parent or other family member with all your heart, but there may come a time when transitioning to assisted living is best for both of you. Here are the signs to watch for that may indicate it’s time for the transition.
You do dozens of small things every day that you take for granted, from cooking and eating to cleaning the house and paying bills. If your loved one needs help doing all of these things—whether due to physical or mental limitations—a full-time caregiver may be required. This means it’s time to consider assisted living.
The cost of long-term care depends on what type you choose. For instance, a full-service nursing home may charge $7,000 per month or more for a private room. Assisted living is typically more affordable, with costs averaging $3,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
The cost of senior care strains many family budgets to the breaking point. You want to offer your loved one the best care possible, but cost is a major factor in determining the facilities that will work for your family. To help make senior care more affordable, there are several payment options to consider. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that a number of these options are available only for seniors and families who have taken the time to think ahead and plan according to their upcoming needs.
