Moving Mom and Dad
2008/07/13 Originally published in the Vernon Morning Star.
Unfortunately, there comes a time in everybody's life that their aging parents are forced to give up their home.
Usually our parents make a gradual transition by switching from the huge task of maintaining a house and yard to the easier lifestyle of condos and adult communities. This lifestyle rose to popularity in our area in the late 1980's. What a breakthrough that was. It sets retirees free to golf or travel, without worrying about lawn care and snow shoveling.
Another reason seniors choose adult communities is health. Oftentimes bad hips or knees make gardening more a chore than a pleasure. Most adult communities are single level homes and if they are not, the laundry and general living area are on the entry level and this means freedom from frequently climbing stairs. This is a welcome change for many and suits most peoples' needs.
But, as our parents continue to age they experience further challenges. As physical health and memory capability decline, the families face tough decisions. Our parents usually know they need to live in an atmosphere where their meals are prepared for them and there is staff available to help if they have a fall or a medical crisis.
In some cases the aging parents and their children decide to invest together in a home with a suite. Its much less worrisome to have Mom and Dad close by if there are health concerns, than to have them living across town. This scenario is feasible only when at least one of the adult children is not working and when proper time can be found to devote to our parents.
As far as real estate ownership is concerned for those wishing to buy in assisted living establishments, the only one I know of in our immediate area is Canterbury Court. It is an attractive beautifully maintained place. If buying that type of real estate doesn't suit the financial plans, then many choose to rent in those same two establishments. There are several other places where rentals are available with assisted living that do not involve ownership. To name a few, there are Gentle Waters, The Victorian, Mary's Manor, Carrington Place and Good Samaritan Canada Heron Grove.
In a future column I will try to make some suggestions on how to ease the process of "wrapping up" our parents' homes.
Jane Field works with RE/MAX Vernon. Jane has over 30 years experience in the Real Estate business. To suggest topics for future articles or to ask Jane questions, email her or call 503-3755.
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