There may come a time when one or both of your parents require additional care. This realization may bring up emotions, complex planning, and conflicts amongst siblings, and these feelings can intensify should your parents have differing care needs. As your parents age, their needs are going to change and, most likely, differ. By understanding that your mom and dad may have unique and individual needs, you can ensure that they both get the best care possible. 

HarborChase Senior Living, with communities across the United States, offers varying levels of senior care—from independent living to memory care programs. We’re sharing some information on how best to navigate the situation of finding the right level of care for each of your parents.

Knowing Your Parents Have Differing Care Needs

Before seeking out separate senior care options for your parents, it’s important first to recognize that they do, in fact, have different care requirements and understand what those care needs are. Here are some scenarios that could confirm your parents need different levels of senior care: 

• Your mom is active and independent and wants to socialize with new people, while your dad is beginning to show signs of significant memory impairment and sometimes gets confused or angry. 
• Your dad is energetic and social but is unable to leave your mom at home unattended. 
• Your mom requires transportation to frequent doctor appointments, but your dad is beginning to have mobility issues and can no longer drive.

While every family is different, pay attention to your parents’ unique situation. By observing their daily life, you may become aware that your mom and dad may not be getting the attention and support that they truly need, and it could be time to consider other options. 

Things to Consider When Looking For Care 

As you discuss senior care options with your parents, there are a few things that you should consider before making any decisions. This can be a sensitive and emotional subject for many families, but it’s vital to talk through all possibilities and options so that everyone is on the same page. Here are some things to consider when discussing senior care options for your parents. 

How Important is Staying Together?

Often, your parents’ desire to not separate can deter them from getting the proper care they need for a longer period of time. One parent may end up exerting more energy to take care of the other, or you might be overreaching your own abilities in an attempt to care for them both. Discuss with your parents how necessary it is that they stay together. 

Many senior living communities offer a continuum of care that can accommodate both parents, but finding the right one could lengthen your search. While we understand the importance of staying together, it’s important to put health needs above all else. 

What is Their Budget?

When talking through senior care options, always consider what your parents’ budget will allow. Paying for two separate communities can potentially be very costly while choosing one community might allow your parents to share a room or other accommodations. 

What Are Their Unique Needs?

While you may be sure that your parents have different senior care needs, it’s important to know what level of care they will benefit from to find the best care options individually. 

• If your mom is active and social, independent living would be a good fit for her.
• If your dad is beginning to show cognitive decline, a memory care community could provide security and stimulation.
• If both of them need an additional layer of care and support, assisted living could be the best option. 

By understanding their unique needs, you can find a solution that would allow them to live safely and happily. 

Senior Care Options at HarborChase Senior Living

At HarborChase Senior Living communities, we offer exceptional services that meet the changing needs of older adults. From independent living and retirement communities to Alzheimer’s and dementia care, we provide residents with unique and individualized care to meet them wherever they may be. We will ensure that your parents are given the proper attention and care to fit their unique needs—all within the same community. 

While it can be challenging to recognize that your parents need support, HarborChase Senior Living is committed to providing the highest quality of care to ensure that your parents are comfortable and you have peace of mind. 

Please note that not all care services are offered at every location. For more information on our communities and services, we encourage you to contact us today!