A common dilemma faced by grown up children of disabled parents is whether to take care of elders at home or to let the professionals at nursing homes handle it. Staying at home as a caregiver to an elder can pose many problems, like loss of income as well as severe stress.

On the other hand, nursing home expenditures can be very high; a report published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in 2005 states that the average cost of nursing home care in the US was a whopping $47,000 annually, and that was in 1999, more than a decade ago!

Caring for a disabled elderly is taxing both emotionally and financially. Step one is to have an open discussion with the elder; let them be open about their daily needs and areas where they require help, so that you may plan accordingly. Next, assess your parent’s financial status -- find out if there are any savings, investments or retirement funds. Take a close look at your own finances and if needed, apply for financial assistance from the local Department of Social or Human Services.

Ensure all relevant paperwork has been taken care of, like power of attorney, will, and a living will in case the elder needs life support. An adult care facility is always a good idea, since the elder gets to spend time out of home and in the midst of peers.

Choose a facility that best matches your parent’s needs, and if money is a problem, ask for reduced rates. Many adult care facilities are willing to offer their services at a lesser fee for families that fall in the lower income category.

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