To move, or not to move? Think SAFETY

It’s a huge decision, all right.  Moving from your home is hard at any age, but especially for an older person.  Specifically, your aging parent.

Karin Miller, Geriatric Care Manager, suggests you and your parent look at the possibility through the eyes of SAFETY.  Consider:

Safety in the house

• Is the house accessible?  Stairs?  Bathroom, Laundry on the main floor, Throw rugs,  grab bars…
• Is home maintenance too much to deal with?

Safety from the outside

• Is your parent in danger of being taken advantage of?
• Driving safely?

Safety of person

• Is there memory loss?  What about the ability to reason and make decisions?
• Does he or she know what to do in emergencies?
• Still cook a meal?  Take a shower safely?
• Socialization and isolation–Will he or she enjoy being with others in a group setting?

Make a plan

• List what is safe and unsafe
• Gather information
• Hire help–this gives you another set of eyes to see what’s going on and to make sure basic needs are met.
• Discuss the ongoing situation with family
• Consider objections and realistic alternatives
• Make a plan now and expect it to change.

This is a journey.