Could You Be A Better Caregiver than Oklahoma’s Nursing Homes?

It's likely you've heard your parents say that they would never live in a nursing home. About 7 out of 10 people think that living in a nursing home doesn't sound like a plan they support. And in Oklahoma, there's a good reason to be weary.

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According to the Tahlequah Daily Press, Oklahoma's nursing homes made the top of the list for the worst nursing home staffing in the United States. Thanks to the lack of caretakers, there are more and more elderly that are unable to get necessary care.

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So begs the question: would you be able to care for your family member at home instead of sending them to Oklahoma's nursing homes?

Lifestyle Change

Being a caregiver is not an easy thing. You're not living just for yourself anymore, you'll likely be taking care of someone who has taken care of you. To add on top of that, though, you'll likely be dealing with more than most parents do with normal children.

One popular caretaker, Chris Punsalan, recorded his life while taking care of his late Grandmother and let's just say he was living a much different life than most twenty year olds.

Financial Challenges

Many elderly suffer health complications and require things like therapy and constant hands-on care. With certain conditions, they even need parts of the house to be renovated to accomodate beds, wheelchairs and other equipment.

When it comes to finances, Oklahoma does have a little assistance available to caregivers at private residential homes. The Caring for Caregivers Act allows families to receive an out-of-pocket expense tax credit, up to $2,000 to $3,000 a year.

The act covers things directly related to the family member being cared for. Things like home care and hospice, equipment, adult diapers, and other directly related things can be accounted with the funds. However, a few things don't fall under the umbrella.

According to the AARP website, diabetic supplies and insulin pumps are considered medications, which are not covered. To find out the specifics of the Act and the qualifying costs, check out more.

Do you think you have the savings and sanity to bring your parents back home with you if they needed you? Tell us what you would do instead by messaging us on the app.

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