Caring for Aging Parents: A Guide to Love and Support

Members may feel overwhelmed when caring for a loved one who is a senior. They believe their only option is to have this individual move to a senior living community full-time. However, many communities now offer short-term stays, giving the family caregiver a much-needed break while ensuring their loved one is in a safe and supportive environment. Peers will surround the seniors, and they can see what life in a community is like. They may find they don’t want to return home to the family caregiver after a stay in a community.

Short Term Stays

Before seeking assistance from Belmont Village, a family will want to know more about a short-term stay. This stay will allow the senior to live in the retirement community temporarily. While this option typically is not appropriate for those who have undergone surgery or need rehabilitation, it is an excellent option for a family in need of respite care. The seniors can spend time with their peers while being overseen by staff members, and the family can rest and recharge before the seniors return home. They won’t feel guilty about taking this time away because they know the senior is in the perfect environment for their needs.

A Staycation

Seniors might be the ones to request this option. They look at staying in the retirement community as a staycation. They get a break from their daily lives and are happy that their children can have time to themselves. Seniors might also request this option if there is a disruption in their routine. For example, their child might be having the kitchen remodeled, and the senior wants to avoid dealing with strangers in and out of the home, as well as the noise and other elements that come with this type of project. They can temporarily relocate to a retirement community and enjoy peace while their child works on their homes.

A Trial Run

A senior might consider a trial run at a retirement community. They want to know more about this community and feel shorter visits aren’t giving them the necessary information. They can request a short-term stay to participate in community programs, activities, and social events. The seniors will need to talk to each community to determine if they offer this option and how long they will be allowed to stay. Communities that would enable short-term trial runs typically offer an 8 to 12-week trial. However, that could change by community, so it’s always best for the seniors and their loved ones to ask about this option and what it involves. 

During this trial run, the senior can learn about the amenities offered, the meals prepared, and the community culture. Often, seniors will find this to be the perfect fit for them. However, if it is not, there is no need to worry. They may try other communities until they find one that makes them truly feel as if they are at home.

Family caregivers should never feel guilty about requesting a short-term stay for a loved one at a retirement community. A caregiver suffering from burnout cannot help their loved one properly, and the care they provide will be lacking in quality. By looking into short-term stays in retirement communities, the caregiver can get a much-needed break knowing their loved one receives the proper care and attention until they return. The peace of mind they get from knowing this is priceless.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.