The Move from Home to Alternative Living

The decision to move from a home to an alternative living facility situation creates a complexity of emotions for the family caregiver (FC). Feelings of guilt, relief, tension, anxiety, fear, and uncertainty are but a few emotions experienced by FCs when considering moving their loved one to alternative living arrangements. Nurses need to intervene to help assess, navigate, and optimize outcomes for these exhausted families as they make the decision regarding alternative housing for their loved one. This chapter will explore and discuss some of the key challenges and benefits associated with transitioning from independent living in a private residence to alternative living arrangements for older adults, shedding light on the factors that influence this decision-making process. This chapter will also describe several alternative housing options for the nurse to consider with the patient and the FC.