The Heart of Heritage

Honoring the Pioneer Spirit at BeeHive Homes of New Mexico

In the sun-drenched desert landscapes and mountain valleys of New Mexico, the spirit of the pioneers still whispers in the wind. It lives in the stories passed down at kitchen tables, in the quiet strength of our elders, and in the hands and hearts of the caregivers who rise each day with a calling—not just to work, but to give.

At BeeHive Homes of New Mexico, that pioneer spirit is more than just history—it’s the heartbeat of everything we do.

Rooted in Heritage, Raised by Empathy

Our homes are built on generations of values. In a state where family and tradition are everything, BeeHive Homes was founded by people who believe caring for others is both a responsibility and a privilege. Many of our owners and caregivers are lifelong New Mexicans, raised on the stories of grandparents who tilled the land, built their homes by hand, and looked out for neighbors like kin.

That same neighborly spirit now shapes how we care for every resident.

We know that stepping into assisted living can feel like stepping into the unknown—but here, it’s more like coming home. The warmth of our caregivers, the smell of green chile stew in the kitchen, the laughter from the activity room—it all ties back to a way of life that respects hard work, values wisdom, and believes in walking beside each other.

The BeeHive Spirit: Giving Without Hesitation

Ask anyone at BeeHive Homes what makes our care different, and they’ll tell you: it’s the people.

Our team doesn’t just clock in. They show up—with open hearts, ready hands, and a willingness to do what’s needed, no matter the time or task. That’s the BeeHive way. Whether it’s sitting quietly with a resident who misses home, celebrating a birthday with homemade cake, or checking in on family members who need support—we give, without hesitation.

Because that’s how we were raised. Because it’s what New Mexico taught us. And because we believe in the sacred trust of caring for another person’s parent, spouse, or grandparent.

A Legacy We’re Proud To Continue

Our homes across New Mexico—whether in Albuquerque, Clovis, Farmington, or Roswell—are filled with echoes of the past and hope for the future. Many of our residents are pioneers themselves: veterans, ranchers, teachers, healers. Their stories inspire us. Their courage humbles us. And their trust fuels our commitment.

Every day, we carry their legacy forward by offering care that’s not just professional—but personal. Not just skilled—but kind.

Come See the Spirit in Action

At BeeHive Homes of New Mexico, we aren’t just caregivers. We’re neighbors. We’re family. We’re part of a living legacy that honors where we’ve come from and pours heart into where we’re going.

If you’re looking for a place where your loved one will be seen, known, and cared for with the deep-rooted values of our shared heritage, we invite you to visit one of our homes. Come feel the warmth. Come witness the giving spirit. Come find the place where home still feels like home.

Call your local BeeHive Home today or explore our website to learn more.

Living History & Heartfelt Care

Nestled among the gentle slopes of Douglas County with panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies, Parker, CO is more than a scenic town — it’s a place where heritage meets heart. Known for its small-town charm and rich Western roots, Parker’s story mirrors the values that define BeeHive Homes of Parker: personal attention, strong community, and compassionate care.

From its days as a stagecoach stop to its current status as a family-focused town near the Rueter-Hess Reservoir, Parker is an ideal setting for those seeking meaningful connection and high-quality assisted living in Parker, CO.

A Look Back: The Founding of Parker

The foundation of Parker began in the 1860s when gold rush travelers followed the Cherokee Trail across Colorado. In 1864, Alfred Butters built a simple cabin and general store to serve them, known as the Pine Grove Way Station. This early hub gave rise to the town we now call Parker.

With the extension of the Denver and New Orleans Railroad in 1882, Parker flourished into a growing agricultural and commercial community. The town was renamed after James S. Parker, who helped bring the railroad to the area and became its postmaster.

Today, the town’s historic downtown district and landmarks like the 17 Mile House Farm Park stand as tributes to its pioneer spirit—a spirit that continues at places like BeeHive Homes, where each resident’s story is honored with dignity and care.

Parker’s Natural Beauty & Community Spirit

Surrounded by open space, trails, and scenic views, Parker boasts a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Local favorites like Rueter-Hess Reservoir offer outdoor recreation while maintaining a peaceful environment perfect for senior living.

This balance makes Parker an ideal place for seniors seeking a calm, yet connected lifestyle. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the mountains or enjoying a walk with visiting family, life at BeeHive Homes of Parker reflects the town’s deep sense of place.

BeeHive Homes: Where Elderly Care Feels Like Home

Our beautiful BeeHive Home in Parker Colorado at sunset

Located at 11765 Newlin Gulch Blvd, BeeHive Homes of Parker isn’t just another senior living option, it’s a warm, family-style residence built on the values that define Parker itself: community, trust, and care.

With only 16 private rooms, BeeHive offers a cozy environment where residents receive personalized support for activities of daily living (ADLs): including bathing, dressing, medication reminders, and mobility assistance.

Each room is thoughtfully designed for comfort and accessibility, and residents are encouraged to bring their own furniture, photos, and mementos to make it feel truly like home.

️ Dining, Activities & Daily Life That Feels Meaningful

Mealtimes at BeeHive are more than just nourishment... they’re gathering times, filled with conversation, warmth, and fresh, home-cooked meals. Whether it’s breakfast with mountain views or celebrating a birthday with loved ones, we create moments that matter.

Residents enjoy a wide range of senior living activities from games and crafts to music and fitness. This not only supports physical well-being but fosters social connection and emotional health, vital for aging with joy and purpose.

Serving More Than Just Parker

While located in Parker, BeeHive Homes proudly serves surrounding neighborhoods such as Auburn Hills, Stonegate, Meridian Village, Antelope Heights, and nearby communities like Castle Rock and Centennial. Whether you're looking for respite care Parker families trust or full-time elderly care Parker CO, our doors are open.

And thanks to our proximity to Children’s Lighthouse daycare and Lutheran High School, families of all ages feel right at home when visiting their loved ones.

️ Peace of Mind for Every Stage of Life

Our care model is flexible; residents can often remain with us through end-of-life, avoiding stressful transitions and giving families peace of mind. Our high staff-to-resident ratio ensures that each individual receives the attention, care, and respect they deserve.

We also offer respite care for family caregivers needing temporary support, including furnished rooms, full access to services, and short-term flexibility.

Discover the BeeHive Difference in Parker

BeeHive Homes of Parker stands as a modern extension of the town’s values: neighborliness, independence, and heartfelt care. We invite you to come and experience our community firsthand, where history lives on and every resident is treated like family.

Schedule a tour today at 11765 Newlin Gulch Blvd, Parker, CO
Call us at (303) 752-8700
Visit our website to learn more

The Power of Knowing Their Story: Memory Care at BeeHive

At BeeHive Homes, memory care isn’t just about keeping someone safe, it’s about seeing the person inside and knowing we can meet them with warmth. We believe that even when memories fade, the need for connection and comfort remains.

When a new resident joins us, we don’t just focus on routines or medical charts. We sit down and get to know them. What makes them smile? Which songs bring peace? Who do they talk about the most? It’s these simple, personal details that help us create care that feels familiar.

Care That Feels Like Home

At BeeHive, we’ve built a model that truly supports memory care without ever feeling cold or clinical. Our homes are small, warm, and inviting. Every face is familiar, and every routine is designed with gentleness. Here’s what makes our memory care stand apart:

This isn’t institutional care. It’s care that feels like family.

A Story That Still Matters

Dementia may change how someone expresses themselves, but it doesn’t erase who they are. We see the light in their eyes when they hear an old song or recognize a familiar face. We see the power of knowing their story.

And that’s what we hold onto, every day, with love, patience, and joy.

 

Why Small Homes Feel Bigger at Heart

There’s something different about walking into a small BeeHive Home. It’s not just the cozy living room or the smell of fresh coffee drifting from the kitchen—it’s the sense that you’ve stepped into a place where people truly know and care for one another. It’s a place where comfort and connection live side by side.

That’s the beauty of small.

At BeeHive Homes, we design our communities to feel like home—not just in layout, but in spirit. Unlike larger senior living facilities, our smaller size creates space for deeper relationships, meaningful moments, and personalized care.

Personal Connections That Matter

In our homes, caregivers and residents build genuine relationships. Each interaction matters, from remembering a favorite breakfast to sharing a daily routine. As a result, care becomes more than a task—it becomes a relationship rooted in trust and familiarity.

Maria, whose mother lives in one of the BeeHive Homes in New Mexico, shared, “I love knowing that when my mom calls a caregiver by name, it’s because she truly knows them—and they know her. She’s not one of fifty. She’s part of a family.”

Everyday Peace of Mind

Smaller homes create a sense of calm. Families often tell us they feel more at ease knowing their loved one isn’t navigating long hallways or crowded spaces. Because of our home’s design, residents receive quicker responses and enjoy a setting that’s easy to understand—especially important for those living with memory loss.

Moreover, our peaceful atmosphere supports both emotional and physical well-being. Residents move at a comfortable pace, and familiar faces offer reassurance throughout the day.

A Place Where Residents Truly Thrive

We’ve seen firsthand how our environment helps residents flourish. Many who once felt isolated begin to reengage with life—laughing more, participating in activities, and forming new friendships. Whether they’re chatting over breakfast or enjoying sunshine on the patio, they feel a sense of belonging.

After all, when a place feels like home, it becomes more than where you live. It becomes where you’re seen, known, and valued.

Why BeeHive Homes Makes Assisted Living Easy

When the time comes to find the right care for a loved one, the decision can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you choose a place that feels like home? At BeeHive Homes, we believe that assisted living in New Mexico should be simple, compassionate, and comforting—for both residents and their families. Here’s why BeeHive Homes is the next best place to home, making everything else easy.

A Homelike Community, Not Just a Facility

Unlike large, impersonal assisted living facilities, BeeHive Homes offers small, family-style residences across New Mexico—from Alamogordo to Santa Fe. Each location, like BeeHive Homes of Four Hills or BeeHive Homes of Roswell, is designed to feel warm and familiar. With personalized care tailored to each resident, it’s no wonder families call us “the next best place to home.” Whether your loved one needs assisted living, memory care, or respite care, our homelike settings provide comfort and connection every day.

Clear Pricing, No Surprises

One of the biggest worries families face when exploring senior living in New Mexico is cost. At BeeHive Homes, we take that stress away with clear, transparent pricing. No hidden fees, no unexpected add-ons—just straightforward information so you can plan with confidence. Whether you’re looking at assisted living care in Clovis or memory care near me in Hobbs, we’re here to make the financial side as easy as the emotional one.

A Seamless Transition to Care

We know moving to an assisted living facility can feel like a big step. That’s why our seamless admission process is designed to lift the burden off your shoulders. From the moment you reach out to BeeHive Homes of Rio Rancho or BeeHive Homes of Farmington, our team handles the details with care and kindness. We’ll guide you every step of the way, ensuring your loved one’s transition is smooth and welcoming—so they feel at home from day one.

Compassionate Care Around the Clock

At the heart of BeeHive Homes is our commitment to compassionate, 24/7 care. Whether it’s memory care in Albuquerque or respite care in White Rock, our caregivers are more than staff—they’re family. They’re there to assist with daily needs, share a smile, and offer peace of mind for families. Aging gracefully becomes easier when you know your loved one is surrounded by people who genuinely care.

Tailored Options Across New Mexico

With locations throughout the state, BeeHive Homes makes it easy to find senior care near you. Need memory care in Deming? Short-term respite care in Gallup? Assisted living in Enchanted Hills? We’ve got you covered. Each BeeHive Homes location offers a unique blend of services to meet your family’s needs, all delivered with the same warmth and dedication.

Peace of Mind for Every Family

Choosing BeeHive Homes means choosing peace of mind. Our small communities foster lasting relationships—between residents, caregivers, and families. It’s a place where stories are shared, laughter fills the air, and everyone feels like they belong. For families across New Mexico searching for elderly care or a senior care community, we’re here to make the journey simpler and more meaningful.

Ready to See the BeeHive Difference?

At BeeHive Homes, we’re proud to offer assisted living, made simple. From our homelike environments to our clear pricing and heartfelt caregiving, we’re here to support you and your loved ones every step of the way. Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a tour at a BeeHive Homes location near you—like BeeHive Homes of Portales or BeeHive Homes of Bernalillo. Let us show you why we’re the easy choice for assisted living in New Mexico.

Spring into Comfort

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Explore Assisted Living

As nature blooms with color and warmth, spring reminds us that every season brings new beginnings. For many families, this season of renewal is the perfect time to reflect, reset, and take those important next steps toward a brighter future—especially when it comes to caring for aging loved ones.

At BeeHive Homes, we believe that spring is the ideal time to explore assisted living in New Mexico. Here's why.


A Season of New Beginnings

Spring symbolizes hope, fresh starts, and positive change. If your family has been considering assisted living, this time of year offers a gentle transition—longer days, sunshine, and blossoming surroundings that naturally lift the spirit.

Moving into a senior care community during spring gives your loved one the chance to:


A Cozy, Homelike Setting

BeeHive Homes isn’t just another assisted living facility—it’s truly the next best place to home. With intimate, residential-style homes and compassionate caregivers available 24/7, our residents receive personalized care with dignity and respect.

Whether your loved one needs help with daily tasks, medication management, or just a little extra support, we provide it all in a warm, loving environment.


Personalized Care, Every Day

No two residents are the same, and we celebrate those differences. That’s why our care is tailored to the individual—fostering independence while offering the support they need to thrive. From homemade meals to engaging daily activities, BeeHive Homes makes each day meaningful.


Peace of Mind for Families ️

Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. But at BeeHive Homes, we make everything else easy—clear pricing, a seamless admissions process, and a welcoming transition for your loved one. And for families, that means real peace of mind.


Spring is Calling—Will You Answer? ☀️

If you’ve been wondering when the right time is, this is it. Let this season of renewal be the fresh start your loved one deserves.

Schedule a spring tour at your nearest BeeHive location today and see why families across New Mexico trust us to care for the ones they love most.

Find Your Location & Schedule a Visit »

Everything Else Easy

When It’s Time to Decide, BeeHive Homes Makes Everything Else Easy

Deciding on assisted living, memory care, or respite care for a loved one is one of the most significant choices a family can make. It’s a decision filled with emotions, questions, and uncertainty. At BeeHive Homes, we understand that choosing senior care shouldn’t be complicated or overwhelming. That’s why we’ve built our entire approach around making the transition as simple and stress-free and easy as possible — so that you can focus on what truly matters: the well-being and happiness of your loved one.

A Simple, Transparent Process

Moving into an assisted living community should be a time of comfort and relief, not confusion and stress. We’ve designed every step of the transition at BeeHive Homes to be easy, transparent, and supportive. Here’s how:

More Than Just a Place to Live—A Place to Belong

At BeeHive Homes, we believe that assisted living is about more than just care — it’s about creating a meaningful life for our residents. Our small, intimate communities are designed to feel like home, where every resident is known by name and treated like family.

Private rooms with ADA-approved bathrooms for comfort and dignity.

️ Delicious home-cooked meals made fresh daily.

Daily social activities to keep minds and hearts engaged.

️ Compassionate assistance with daily tasks to support independence.

We don’t just offer a place to stay; we offer a place to thrive.

Making a Hard Decision Easier

For many families, the hardest part isn’t recognizing that a loved one needs help — it’s figuring out where to turn and who to trust. That’s why BeeHive Homes is dedicated to providing families with peace of mind.

We know this isn’t just a choice — it’s a life transition. And we’re here to walk beside you, offering guidance, compassion, and a place where your loved one will feel truly at home.

Experience the BeeHive Homes Difference

If you’ve been thinking about assisted living, memory care, or respite care, we invite you to schedule a tour and experience firsthand why families across the country trust BeeHive Homes.

Call today to learn more about our simple, stress-free admission process.

BeeHive Homes—The Next Best Place to Home.

A Growing Commitment to Care

McKinney, Texas, is a city rich in history, charm, and steady growth. Once a small agricultural town, McKinney has evolved into one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, all while preserving its small-town appeal. As the community continues to expand, so do the needs of its residents—especially when it comes to assisted living in McKinney and quality senior care.

BeeHive Homes of McKinney is proud to be part of this vibrant community, offering assisted living care, memory care, and respite care in a homelike setting. With a focus on high-acuity assisted living and lockdown memory care, BeeHive Homes is uniquely positioned to meet the growing demand for personalized, compassionate senior care in McKinney.

A Look Back at McKinney’s History

McKinney, established in 1848, was named after Collin McKinney, one of the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Originally a farming community, the city thrived due to its rich soil, access to the Trinity River, and proximity to Dallas. As time passed, McKinney transitioned into a hub for commerce and industry while maintaining its historic downtown charm.

Over the past two decades, McKinney’s growth has skyrocketed. The population has more than doubled, fueled by its excellent schools, family-friendly atmosphere, and business-friendly environment. Despite this rapid expansion, McKinney continues to prioritize community values and quality of life—making it an ideal location for assisted living in Texas that embraces the warmth and care of a small-town feel.

McKinney’s Momentum: The Need for Quality Senior Care

With its growing population, McKinney also has an increasing number of seniors who require specialized care. Many families are searching for memory care in McKinney that allows their loved ones to age safely while receiving the personalized attention they need.

BeeHive Homes of McKinney is stepping in to fill this critical need. Unlike larger, impersonal facilities, BeeHive offers a small, home-like environment where seniors receive tailored care, including:

  1. Assisted Living Care: Residents enjoy private rooms, 24/7 caregiver support, assistance with daily activities, medication management, and home-cooked meals in a comfortable, welcoming environment.
  2. Memory Care in McKinney: For those living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, BeeHive Homes provides secure memory care in Texas, ensuring safety, structure, and engaging cognitive activities.
  3. Respite Care in McKinney: Short-term stays are available for families who need temporary care for their loved ones, whether for recovery after surgery or a break for family caregivers.

The BeeHive Difference: Assisted Living in McKinney with a Heart

As McKinney continues its forward momentum, BeeHive Homes is committed to ensuring that seniors are not left behind. Assisted living in Texas should be about more than just care—it should be about dignity, independence, and a sense of home.

That’s why BeeHive Homes of McKinney is designed to offer:

This is assisted living in McKinney the way it should be—personalized, compassionate, and built around the needs of each resident.

The Future of Senior Care in McKinney, Texas

McKinney’s continued growth means more families will be looking for assisted living, memory care, and respite care for their loved ones. As the city evolves, so does the need for a trusted, caring, and highly specialized senior living community.

BeeHive Homes of McKinney is more than just a care facility—it’s a home where seniors can thrive, families can find peace of mind, and the community can rely on quality elderly care for years to come.

If you or a loved one are looking for assisted living in McKinney, memory care in Texas, or respite care in McKinney, we invite you to schedule a tour and experience the BeeHive difference firsthand.

Call us today at (469) 353-8232 to learn more about BeeHive Homes assisted living in McKinney and how we can help your loved one live comfortably and with dignity.

Care-giving After Hospital Stay

Many people experience hospital visits in their golden years. Bodies begin wearing out and the struggle against certain ailments or diseases can be grueling.  It is common for people in older age to go in because they've broken a bone, or had a stroke, or ended up with pneumonia that needed to be treated in hospital instead of at home.  There are also a number of scheduled surgeries and procedures that can cause elderly people to need extra care at home after they've returned, such as bypasses and a host of others.  The release from a hospital does not mean that they are clear to go back to normal activity, but simply that they are okay to go home as long as someone is there to care from them.  So with great love, many people take it upon themselves to offer care to the person who is being released.  They themselves will take care of this person who needs extra care and see to it that nothing else bad befalls them.  But often, the level of care-giving and the length of time that it takes for recovery is an unforeseeable part of the equation. They are signing up to have their lives turned upside down for an unknown period of time.  That can be exhausting and discouraging.  So whether you are a caregiver, or if you know someone who is, here are a few things to do to help avoid burnout and to ensure that the caregiver has the strength and energy they need to do their job well.

  1. Adequate rest. You'll need plenty of rest, but how can you come by this if you need to be up all night, every night watching someone?  Call on backup!  Whether it is extended family or friends that you need to call in, or even putting a call out at church, you need sleep.  You'll not be able to adequately function if you do not have rest.  Ask them to come and sit with the person during the day so that you can go and get a nap.  Lack of sleep can have symptoms similar to drunkenness and your cognitive abilities really do decline.  Remember that you are responsible for another person's well-being, so if you won't do it for yourself, then do it for the person you're caring for.   If you know of someone who is a caregiver, offer a few hours of time that you can sit with their loved one so they can get a nap.  If you're a close friend, offer it more than once a week.
  2. Time away. If you feel you're getting enough rest, then also plan in some time away each day. It's important, especially if the care you are offering is for a very lengthy period of time, that you have some space from the situation and the individual.  It doesn't matter how much you care for one another, if you're cooped up in the same house with someone for weeks on end, you can get a little abrasive toward one another.  So take some time to go and re-charge, do something that interests you and energizes you and then come back to the situation.  If nothing else, you'll have something new to talk about!
  3. Eat well. It can be tempting in these situations to feed your loved one what they need and forget almost entirely about what your own body needs.  Keep up with your nutrition and also with your vitamins.  Make sure you're having adequate amounts of vegetables.  It is amazing how these simple things can fly out the window in times of stress, when our bodies need them the most.  We tend toward comfort food when times are hard and also when we're exhausted. So keep pumping in those veggies and notice an improvement in energy levels and mood.  If you're a friend, bring meals high in vegetable content so that you know they are getting some good vitamins and minerals at least occasionally.
  4. Hydrate! This is one of the top items that people forget in times of long-term stress.  Drink plenty of water!  Ask someone to pick up lemons or limes from the store so you can have fruit juice in your water for an extra treat.  Get some herbal teas if it's cold outside so that you can warm up and hydrate at the same time.  You'll not only have more spunk, you'll also sleep better when you are able to sleep because of the hydration.
  5. Know when to say 'no more'. This care giving is one of the most daunting tasks you'll likely ever have to perform.  If it is getting to be way too much for you to handle, admit it.  You can't endure it forever.  If you need support from other family members, ask for it.  If there aren't family  or other professionals to call on for back-up, seek help from either an assisted living facility or a nursing home facility.  There is no shame in this.  Even if your loved one is not happy about it, there comes a time when this may be necessary in order to preserve your own health.  Do not allow yourself to get so depleted that you'll be unable to make adequate care decisions for them and for yourself. It's imperative that you keep evaluating throughout your process of care giving to see whether they are genuinely improving to the point that they can be on their own or whether you need help.

Remember, as a care giver, you are arranging a huge portion of your life to accommodate the needs of the one you love.  This is admirable.  It is also grueling.  Do your best to take care of yourself  so that you can care adequately for the one you love.

Making the Decision to Move to a Nursing Home

Nursing homes across the country have gotten a bad rap over the past decade.  Some have been found guilty of negligence and have had people within that are malicious and cruel.  That is absolutely inexcusable and they've been prosecuted.  By and large, however, nursing homes provide care for our very aged or infirm loved ones when they cannot care for themselves any longer & when it is not even advisable for those who love them to care for them at home.  An assisted living facility is a natural progressive step between living on their own and a fuller care facility, but some people must transition straight to increased care because of extreme health circumstances. In many circumstances, the decisions for these things are made by the facts of living situations.  Assisted living facilities can only go so far with care, as they are not as fully staffed as nursing care facilities.  They can check in with your loved one several times throughout the day and be there when necessary, but they cannot keep them safe if they have Alzheimer's or dementia.  They can not do toileting duties or bedside care.  So, how do you help a family member make a decision to go into care, or if they're not themselves, how do you decide for them?

  1. Assess the facts.  Is the person safe?  This should be the first priority in any situation.  I've seen countless families struggle with the decision of a beloved family member going into care because they cannot afford a facility, or because they think it is more honorable to keep them at home.  If however, that person is in danger because they have lost touch with reality and especially if they are prone to wander away from the home or engage in other dangerous activities (ie. Leaving the gas stove on or lighting fires) it is no longer safe for them to be at home.  They need 24 hour care.  And the last time I checked, there is not one person who can give 24 hour care, because you are not able to stay up continuously for 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week!  You need a whole team of individuals to give that extent of care in order for everyone to be well rested, alert and safe.
  2. Take stock of whether they or their caretakes are able to take care of their physical needs.  If they are able to feed themselves, bathe & toilet themselves without difficulty, they are probably fine to stay where they are.  If there comes a day when they are unable to do these things without extensive help, it is time to consider a nursing home.  If their abilities are lost because of a surgery or an injury, a nursing or rehab facility might only be temporary. 
  3. Consider their quality of life.  Sometimes the best way to make the decision is to look at the place where they will receive the best care.  If you are the caretaker, for instance, and you are able to take care of the daily physical needs that they have, but are unable to get them out and about for any social interaction or activities because you also need to work from home in order to pay the bills, it might be time for a change.  Their end of life should not consist in simply watching television.
  4. Be compassionate.  When I encourage compassion, I am telling you to have compassion for the      current caretakers in the situation they're in.  If that is yourself, have compassion on yourself.  If it is staff at an assisted living or rehab facility, have compassion on them.  And finally, have compassion on the person who needs care.  It is necessary to have a balanced view of compassion in this situation, because oftentimes people place all their care & compassion on the individual that needs extra care to the exclusion of their own health and well-being or to the exclusion of listening to another caretaker.  This is a recipe for burnout and bitterness.  Our loved ones would never want their care to become such that it affects the health and well-being of their caretakers.  So, practice compassion.  And if you determine that it is time for a change, begin the process. Do expect that there may be some difficult times ahead when you are discussing this with your loved one.  There may be anger, feelings of abandonment and betrayal.  You would probably feel the same in those circumstances.  

  This decision is stressful for family, and might be devastating to the individual that needs to enter care.  If they are not fully in their right mind, it can be even more difficult for them to accept or understand.  It is especially important to maintain contact with them during the transitional time, whether they are angry or not.  Once they are settled, re-establish a routine so that they know you'll still be involved in their lives, that you love and care for them and that you're not abandoning them to go off and enjoy a worry-free life. 

  Above all, keep your head throughout the process.  It's difficult, but it is just that, it is a transition and it is not the end of the road.  Encourage them, encourage the rest of your family.  You'll need a team of positive people to get through the next stretch of the journey, so be one of those people yourself!