In many families, it’s almost an expectation that a senior will move into their home at the first sign of health or mobility issues, because they’d rather be nearby in the case of an emergency. However, not all seniors are prepared to give up their independence to live with a family member. Some would rather stay in their own homes with home help or choose another living alternative. Only you can determine if you’re ready to move in with family and if it’s a situation you’re comfortable with. But here are some general guidelines to think about and specific questions you should ask your loved ones before packing your bags:

• What will my role be in paying for household expenses? Does it sound affordable and reasonable based on the living arrangements determined?

• What specific responsibilities will I have? Will I be expected to contribute to household chores or care for any of the grandchildren in the home? If so, how often and when?

• Will I be provided with my own space to maintain my independence? Will I have a room, or a bathroom that’s off limits to the rest of the family?

• What will become of my assets? How will we handle the sale of my home and finances I have in my bank accounts?

• Can I bring my pets to the home?

• Will changes be made to areas of the home to provide for my comfort and safety?

• Will I be a part of family decisions, such as vacations, travel, and hosting of events in the home? Or will the other family members make these decisions?

• Am I able to invite my friends to the home and entertain? What if I want to use the space without the grandchildren?

• What arrangements will be made if I need care assistance? Will someone in the home be able to help, or will we hire senior home care?

Via: Home Instead Senior Care

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

Q – I’ve been trying to get my mom to come visit us from her Phoenix home for a number of years, but she refuses. She has a dog that means a lot to her, and she’s worried about taking him on an airplane, and for her, the distance is too far to drive. We visit her often, but would love to have her in our home so she can see the things her grandchildren are up to up close and personal. Any suggestions for how she can travel with a pet while knowing he is safe?

A – If your mom is reluctant about bringing her dog on a traditional airline, which many pet owners are and she doesn’t have the option of driving, then she can check out a great new airline that caters to only the furry traveler. Pet Airways might not offer trips between your cities just yet, but they will be adding on more soon, so your mom can put her dog on the airline and then meet him at the other side. They offer the following services to make the experience more comfortable to the dogs and cats that they take onboard.

• Pets ride in a climate controlled airplane, where they are regularly checked by staff for comfort and safety

• Pets on Pet Airways are not accepted if they have been given a sedative, something that is commonly required for pets riding on traditional airlines f they are nervous or excitable

• Unlike on other airlines, pets have the opportunity for potty breaks. They are brought out right before the flight and as soon as they land, and on long flights there are stop-overs  so pets can relieve themselves

• Larger dogs have the option to travel without having to be placed in the cargo hold like they are luggage, which is not climate controlled and there’s no way to know how safe the animal is

Via: AARP

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.