By Brenda Deschner, Certified Concierge Care Advisor
When Promises to Keep Parents at Home Become Hard to Keep
Many adult children make heartfelt promises to their parents to keep them at home for the rest of their lives. However, despite the best intentions, this promise can be difficult—if not impossible—to keep as care needs evolve. The reality is, your parents’ well-being must always come first, and sometimes providing the best care means making the tough decision to transition them to a senior living community like an Adult Family Home.
When the Promise Conflicts with Reality
When your parents entrusted you with Power of Attorney (POA), they did so because they believed in your ability to make the best decisions for their care and well-being—not necessarily to fulfill every request. This situation mirrors parenthood: as parents, we make decisions that may upset our children, but ultimately keep them safe and healthy. The same applies when caring for your aging parents.
It’s crucial to remember that care needs change, and managing their well-being may become overwhelming—especially if the responsibility falls solely on one person. As a caregiver, you must assess the situation objectively and ask yourself:
- Would you feel more guilty breaking a promise to keep them at home, or not providing the level of care they need to thrive?
- Are you jeopardizing their health—and your own—by holding onto a promise that no longer serves their best interests?
Guilt is a feeling, not a fact. Making a different decision—one that prioritizes their health and safety—is not a failure. It’s an act of love and responsibility.
Recognizing When It’s Time for a Change
It’s important to acknowledge that providing care as a family member can become physically and emotionally taxing. You wouldn’t hire someone in their 60s or 70s to care for your parent, so why put that burden on yourself or another aging loved one?
While letting go of guilt takes time, many families find that once their loved one transitions to a senior living community or Adult Family Home, they experience relief and peace of mind.
In most cases, families are pleasantly surprised by the positive impact of the move. Seniors often benefit from:
- Professional care management – ensuring medications are taken on time and health needs are met.
- Social engagement – forming new friendships and participating in group activities.
- Improved well-being – access to healthy meals, exercise programs, and round-the-clock support.
This shift also allows adult children to become children again—reclaiming the joy of simply spending time together, free from the stress of full-time caregiving.
How Concierge Care Advisors Can Help
Navigating these complex decisions doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our Concierge Care Advisors specialize in helping families find the right care solutions—whether it’s assisted living, memory care, or Adult Family Homes. We understand that each family’s journey is unique, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
You don’t need to guess or navigate this journey alone. Let us help you find the right care environment so your loved one can receive the best care possible—and you can regain peace of mind.
Contact Us Today
If you’re struggling with caregiving decisions, reach out to Concierge Care Advisors today. We’ll help you find the right solution that ensures both your loved one’s well-being and your own. Call 1-855-444-7364 or visit our website at Concierge Care Advisors to speak with an expert and begin your journey toward better care.
