This years Woodlands Caregivers Conference is being held on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at Christ Church United Methodist. This is an excellent resource for all caregivers, with experts available to answer questions and provide guidance. Best of all, it's free. 

This free conference offers a full day of skill building and informative workshops for those who are caregivers for their loved ones. There are also resources available for caregivers of children with special needs. 

Mom's Care Plan is presenting during the Session One Workshops, at 9:30 am. On the brochure, you will find us listed under the title of "Understanding the Differences Between Senior Living Communities." We will be discussing the differences between senior living & care environments, what you can expect, what to look for and costs involved. If you are interested in learning more about Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care or Skilled Nursing, this is the right workshop for you. Even though our session is only about an hour long, we will be available the entire day to answer your questions and help you consider the best care options for your loved one.  
 
While we would love to see you at our session, we encourage you to attend this most beneficial conference. There is a wealth of knowledge to be gained and many wonderful professionals who want to help you help your loved one.

Please take a look at the BROCHURE and REGISTER HERE. We hope to see you there!

Houston has a great number of assisted living, independent living and memory care communities. Before making any major decisions for your loved one, talk to your family and keep communication open to be sure everyone is comfortable with the senior living environment being chosen. Unfortunately, during difficult times where life decisions are being made, families may begin to argue instead of being the united and comforting presence your loved one needs most.

While caring for your parent should be a shared responsibility between siblings, that may not always be the case. It’s common for one sibling to take the lead role of decision maker - possibly because that sibling may have power of attorney or siblings may be living in different areas, leaving responsibility to the sibling who lives closest to the parent. However, everyone should pitch in where they can and all siblings should be kept informed of anything regarding the care and health of your parent.

Consider having a family meeting once a month. Make a list of topics to go over and address any concerns you may have for your parent. Create a calendar of doctor appointments, barber shop/beauty salon visits or any other activities and see what each sibling is willing to take on. Assess any products your parent may need, such as toilet articles or new clothing items and try to reach an agreement on how these items will be paid for. Suggest making a bank account specifically for these types of purchases, where each sibling may make deposits and contribute what they can.

Most importantly, think of making your parent happy. The last thing any parent wants to see is their adult children at odds with each other. 
 
Choosing a new senior living environment in the Houston area doesn't have to be a difficult process. While it may feel overwhelming to choose from the many options available, keeping the best interest of your loved one at the forefront will serve you well. Always think of what would make your loved one happiest, most comfortable and feel like they are truly home. And always know that Mom's Care Plan is here to guide you in the right direction.