How can we convince my in-laws that they need alternative housing?
Moving from a family home is an overwhelming prospect for an elderly couple. Add on the physical and emotional burdens your in-laws are experiencing and it probably feels like an impossible challenge. But the care needs you are describing are only going to increase over time.
Immediately, they need some sort of personal emergency response system in place. Then, you need to start planning with them how best to meet their long-term needs. If they want to stay where they are, then they will need a lift for the stairs, at a minimum. A professional geriatric care manager can create a good care plan and break up the steps needed so that it is not overwhelming. A care manager can also assist in determining the best housing for their financial capacities, as well as assist in communicating the dangers that exist in their current living situation. Visit http://www.caremanager.org to locate a care manager near your in-laws.
Hello! I am a geriatric care manager GCM, although we do not "manage" the seniors and families we work with, we listen, and then advise. Our older adults trust us to listen, and once that happens, they are willing to listen to us. Sometimes, in fact, folks listen better to someone who ISN'T a family member. Consider calling a GCM for help. Interview more than one to get the best match for you.
Good luck!
