How to Get an Elderly Parent Into a Rehab Facility

Moving an elderly parent into an assisted living/rehabilitation facility can create strain on the heart and the parent. It requires careful planning and consideration, but you can make it easier by following a few simple guidelines.

• 1

  Ask those close to your parent to help you with the pitch. Naturally, an elderly parent will not willingly consent to being placed in a rehabilitation facility, so you may need to do some convincing. If he cannot keep from getting injured in your house, involve his doctors and caretakers in your pitch to him as to why a nursing home is best. Involve other family members in the conversation if possible.

• 2

  Reassure your parent he will receive loving care. Research the top multi-level facilities providing additional services and/or allowing the parent to reside in a single apartment with assisted living. That provides them independence along with watching eyes 24/7.

• 3

  Talk to the facility's Activity Director to ensure your parent will not become bored during his stay. See if it offers amenities such as field trips, arts and crafts and board games. Your parent will remain productive while engaging in enjoyable things to do with other tenants.

• 4

  Visit as often as you can. Elderly parents often suffer when they don't see you as frequently as they did before you moved them. Make a schedule for when you will come over and stick to it so they won't feel as lonely.

• 5

  Check the facility one more time before transferring your parent to ensure it is a safe and reliable place for him. Cross-reference the location and ask administrators if any lawsuits or litigation issues have come up in the facility's past. Ask to see licensing and certification reports as well. Spare no expense in ensuring your parent will be in the best hands possible.