Downsizing Your Senior Life

By Lynne Adkins

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Everyday, 10,000 Americans celebrate their 65th birthday, according to government statistics, and as they age, so do their parents. Many are still living in their families four-bedroom colonial. Michael Calvin tried to get his parents to downsize a while ago.

"That's one of the hardest things in moving in with your parents, is you have to realize it is their life and their decision and even if they're not making what you think is the right decision, you need to work with them to help them make the decision for themselves.

When David Goldenberg's health became an issue, he knew it was time to give up his apartment to be closer to his son.

"Comes that day when you can't do what you always did and I've given up my car and given it to my granddaughter who's learning to drive.

When looking for the next place to live, families need to ask a lot of questions about the care, the food, the cost, the services.

Diane Calvin wanted to make sure her parents could stay for years to come.

"I was looking for all levels of care because I didn't want them to move. I thought it could be traumatic because some places don't offer higher level of care. My dad handled the finances, because he's a finance guy.

She urges adult children to investigate facilities even if the parents aren't ready to move, so if an emergency rises forcing the issue, the family won't be left scrambling.