It's time to call a family meeting. You've already had the tough conversation with grandma and grandpa about where to live and the decision has been made. Now it's time to let everyone else in one the news. Grandma and grandpa are moving in with your family and that means rearranging...bedrooms, routines and life in general.

It’s all getting a shake up, but in the long run, it’s better than the “easy” choice – moving them into a nursing home.

Will there be growing pains? Yes. Will you want to pull your hair out after grandma critiques the way you fold towels or set up the kitchen cabinets? Yes. Will you roll your eyes when grandpa starts a story with, “Back in my day” or turns the TV to the Western channel? Yes. Will you cherish the memories of seeing your children grow up close to their grandparents? Absolutely.

If you thought cohabitating with your parents was hard as an angsty teenager, wait until you’re a parent with your own home with your own rules and routines. But when you think about them and the benefits on their health, sometimes it gets easier.

Benefits of grandparents moving in, include:

1. HUMAN INTERACTION. Elder isolation is a national issue and in some instances can be considered elder abuse. Socialization and human interaction are key to living a happy and healthy life. While there will be times when the generations clash under one roof, your older loved ones will find joy in being surrounded by people who care about them. And this can have a profound impact on their mental health.

2. HUNGER SATISFACTION. Until two years ago, Arkansas carried the torch for the worst state when it came to elder hunger, but now we are out of the worst 10. Progress. Living with loved ones means our aging family members won’t have to worry about where their next meal is coming from, and it’ll be nutritious, too. A well-balanced meal daily will help them stay healthy.


3. SECURITY SYSTEM. You’re surrounding them with trustworthy, caring people who know them as more than another older person. Should they fall or get hurt, someone will be close by. Although work schedules might offer moments of alone time, hiring a caregiver or signing them up for Meals on Wheels during the day can add protection for when you can’t be there.


4. JOY & LAUGHTER. They say laughter is good for the soul and we agree. When those frustrating moments fade and you experience a moment of pure joy and laughter, you and your aging parents will cherish that memory. 

It takes a village and CareLink has 40 years of experience improving the health and quality of life of our community. From caregivers to respite care to Meals on Wheels to fitness classes, CareLink wants to help you and your older loved ones overcome the challenges of aging to make the most of their golden years. Call us at 501.372.5300 or toll-free at 800.482.6359 to learn how we can help.