A Practical Guide For Kids

By Mark Shelton, RCFE, California, LNHA Colorado

Over the last 20 years I have heard many kids say the following phrase, "so... mom needs to move." It often puzzles me when they say that. Does Mom really need to move? Who is going to move her? Does she WANT to move? Do YOU want to move?

The simple statement, "Mom needs to move" is riddled with more questions, isn't it? I mean, if we really KNEW mom needed to move, if we were COVINCED of it, then we would not pose it in a question or set of questions, we would probably just move her.

But what is involved with moving mom? Well, now that is a better question and the reason why you probably chose this blog. I will attempt to explore the idea of moving mom, or any loved one into a nursing home, assisted living, senior retirement community, retirement resort, rest home, LGBT community, Hollywood rest home, etc. Did I leave anyone out? Blog about it. Tell me what you think.

There are many emotions surrounding the caregiving years of our lives. In my experience most family members don't have the opportunity to really talk about the frustrations and victories that they are going through. It seems we are placed in a role that we didn't expect or choose, yet are expected to know how to carry out with grace and confidence. Has anyone hit their limits? What about that phone call in the middle of the night from a brother or sister asking for help? Share your story.

I welcome your thoughts.