Mennonite Home Communities of Ohio (MHCO) has published a white paper, “Finding the Right Care for Your Parent,” to assist family members in finding the best environment for an elderly parent or other relative.  The paper is available at no charge on the MHCO website.

One of the key indicators of needing assistance is a noticeable change in a parent’s behavior, such as not eating regularly, neglecting personal care and not taking prescribed medications.  MHCO provides a worksheet that helps determine what factors to consider when deciding if an elderly relative needs more assistance than friends and family can supply.  Is the home itself unsafe?  Are your parents not driving or socializing like they used to?  Do you find yourself managing their medications?  Is your parent losing mobility? 

The white paper also contains explanations of the differences between assisted living and skilled nursing care, as well as what is offered in a “memory care” program and how to overcome a parent’s objections to moving and accepting needed assistance.  It’s recommended reading prior to visiting or calling a long-term care organization.  To download, “Finding the Right Care for Your Parent,” go to https://mhcoliving.org/finding-right-care-for-your-parent/

Mennonite Home Communities of Ohio is a non-profit, faith-based organization providing skilled nursing care, independent and assisted living, home health care and short-term rehabilitation.  For more information, visit mhcoliving.org or call 419-358-1015.