If you're working full time, seriously consider the time it takes to have a dependent older adult at home.

• Aside from personal care, there are many logistics to take care of. An independent older adult can make his own arrangements, but otherwise the burden of making phone calls for services and medical appointments will fall on you. You may have to fill out medical forms and deal with insurance companies. If he doesn't drive, then a family member has to take him to appointments and meetings. Can you do that given your current work schedule?
• If he requires full- or part-time supervision, who will do that while you're at work? Can you afford to cut back your hours at work when someone moves in? Or you may need a more flexible schedule to care for him. Does your job provide that option? These are things you need to discuss with your employer before you decide to move someone in. More than a few caregivers have lost or given up their jobs because they couldn't juggle the competing demands of work and taking care of an older adult.
• Take the time to take care of yourself. If you take soemone into your home, you'll want to figure out how to balance your care giving with some care receiving. Caregivers are more prone to illness due to stress and exhaustion, the so-called "caregiver syndrome." And because they're taking care of others, they often forget or hesitate to ask for help themselves. To replenish your mind, body, and spirit, you'll want to think about taking a yoga class, getting a massage, or going to the spa. There are also many support groups for caregivers, either in-person or online. It helps to realize you're not alone in what you're going through. Several organizations offer support groups and classes for caregivers, including the National Alliance for Caregiving, the National Family Caregivers Association, and the Family Caregiver Alliance.