It is so heartbreaking when you visit Mom or Dad only to find that they are unkempt, the house is a disaster, bills are unpaid, and they have nothing to eat in the house.
You realize in that moment that they cannot live alone any longer; they need help! In this situation, so many decisions need to be made quickly.
You may find yourself overwhelmed by all of these decisions.
One of the first things to do is remember one important idea when dealing with your elderly parent: they want to maintain control.
So what is your job? You need to do the research and take the time to find out what options are best for your loved one, their financial needs, and your peace of mind.
Some options that should be considered when looking into caring for your elderly loved one are these:

• Hiring an in-home assistant or companion: This allows your loved one to stay in their home, where they are most comfortable, but, gives you piece of mind knowing that they are taken care of.
  However, care may not be available overnight, may be restricted in how much medical care they can provide, and can be pricey as care is typically charged by the hour.
  
• Living in your home: When your loved one moves into your home, you can take comfort in knowing that they are cared for and safe, but, it may be time consuming and emotionally draining to be the caregiver.
  While this option is the most economical, it may not be the best option for you, your family, and your elderly loved one.
  
• Assisted living facilities: These facilities vary greatly in the style, size, and amenities available to elders who cannot live on their own.
  Some may be large and un-intrusive, being that they only provide a studio apartment and little supervision, while others may be small and focused on providing assistance in all daily activities.
  These can be pricey as well.
  
• Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) or Board-and-Care homes: Facilities such as these provide 24 hour, daily care for your elderly loved one in home-like settings with only 4 to 6 people in each home.
  Amenities and levels of care offered by these facilities vary greatly.
  Some homes may be within your neighborhood.
  Pricing can be very reasonable in comparison to assisted living facilities.
  
• Nursing home: Nursing homes are typically for elderly persons who need higher levels of medical care than other facilities or care options can provide.
  This may be the only option available for your elderly loved one if recently suffered a medical emergency and they need 24 hour medical care.
  

After completing your research on what option would be best for you and your elderly loved one, be sure to present your findings with the idea that they want to maintain control; give them as many opportunities to make decisions as you can.
Ask for their input on the decision making process.
Be sure to research how to find good options in your area for elder care.
There are so many options available when looking to provide good care for your elderly loved one while maintaining their independence and dignity.