Making the transition to aged care is a significant decision, usually forced by a change in health or mobility of a loved one.
Three key factors to smooth a permanent transition to care:
1. Choosing the Right Facility
↘️ Every aged care facility is unique.
↘️ Consider factors like location, quality of care, level of fees, services offered, and the overall community vibe.
When a home feels welcoming and aligns with your loved one’s needs it will make the transition from their family home to care less stressful for everyone.
2. Financial Planning
↘️ Getting clear on the long-term cost of care is essential.
↘️ Be clear about the fees and the payment options available so there are no unforeseen surprises.
Get advice from financial planners to make sure you are aware of and can afford all of the costs relating to residential aged care. We have been using smart strategies for more than a decade to help protect family wealth and to minimise costs of care where possible.
One important factor that can make the difference is being able to retain at least a part age pension. Not only will it help with cash flow, there are other potential health related benefits relating to medical and pharmaceutical costs.
3. Emotional Adjustments for Everyone
↘️ Moving to aged care is very much an emotional adjustment for everyone concerned. There might be times when your loved one complains about the move, they might even blame you for making them move. Do not take those comments to heart, instead remember they are in an environment focused on their well-being, health and safety.
↘️ Loved ones won’t want to make the physical relocation…and
↘️ “The kid’s” find themselves taking on the parent role, sometimes this means you could be called upon to make tough decisions you really don’t want to!
Be sure to stay connected, encourage visits, go on adventures or enjoy dining out, it will help ease the transition to a more structured environment than they’ve been used to at home. Personalise the space, family pics and familiar items can help make it feel more like home.
🌟 With the right preparation, a move to residential care can be a positive step forward for everyone.
