There is growing anecdotal evidence that one way families are coping with their separation during the epidemic is by relocating their elderly parents to a flat close by, sometimes even across the country. There are undoubtedly many advantages to this change, including safe, socially isolated in-person visits with family members, the ability to physically assist parents when they need it, and a sense of closeness that can comfort everyone during this protracted period of separation and social isolation, especially for aging adults.

However, this decision has several drawbacks as well, some of which might not be immediately obvious. There are many articles explaining why you shouldn't "move my parent closer to me" that you may find if you search for that phrase.

That is not the aim of this. You won't see COVID-19 referenced in those publications because Heritage Care Home Senior Living views itself as a trusted partner to the families we serve. If transferring Mom (or Dad) is something you're thinking about, we want to give some particular perspectives on the times we're living in—COVID times. Living through a pandemic throws in certain relocation-related considerations you wouldn't have to make in any other year.

If you're contemplating transferring a parent closer to relatives, think about the following.

What transpires when circumstances return to "normal"? When you resume your hectic routine, driving the kids to soccer games and dancing lessons while staying late at work, will your loved one still demand the same amount of visits and care? Will they spend a lot of time by themselves at home?

Will they regret leaving behind what they did? If your parent left a senior living facility, there's a good probability that they had many close friendships and memories with the caregivers. They each followed a regimen. They were familiar with the area. This is important to take into account since, as we age, we become less tolerant of change, and COVID has already brought about a lot of it.

Has the epidemic truly strengthened such ties? At Heritage Care Home, we regularly hear from our residents about the positive impacts that our staff members have had on their quality of life throughout COVID-19. When our residents and family contact us or post reviews, they refer to our team members as friends, not "staff," and praise them for going above and beyond. They perceive us as everyone experiencing this trying moment together. We are now closer than we may have been before the epidemic.

Are you planning? Here, perspective is crucial. For a variety of excellent reasons, moving a parent close to you may make sense right now. However, is this the best course of action in the long run? Would this be a wise choice if the pandemic were not present? By carefully considering your options, you can make sure your parents and you can both live with the choice you make.

What are your options? Try to provide answers to the questions here, but also talk to your parents. What are they seeking? Find out if there is a Heritage Care Home community nearby if you decide to move together. In addition to spending time with you, this could ensure that your parents live in a welcoming, safe community where there is always something to do and friendly people to meet. Take a look. We’d love to hear from you!