There comes a time when older adults can really benefit from senior living facilities. It can get difficult for aging adults to carry out simple living tasks such as laundry, shopping for groceries or driving. Having that talk with your parents about moving to a senior living facility can be awkward. Naturally it’s difficult for aging adults to leave the home where they lived for a large part of their lives and raised their family and to move to assisted living.
Here are some steps to make this conversation with your ageing parents easier.
First of all, create a list of concerns for your aging parent. Why do you think it’s not safe for your ageing parent to live by themselves anymore? List down the daily tasks they are having trouble with, such as grooming, bathing or dressing. Listing down your observations will make it easier to discuss it with your parents.
Secondly, do your research. Explore all senior living communities near your area where your aging parent can reside. You will need to know all the facilities they offer and how they handle emergencies. Many community websites have all the necessary information, or you can also call them and ask what you need to know. Make sure the senior living facilities’ location and environment suit your parent’s preference. Physical safety and mental health are very important for aging adults. It directly impacts their health and longevity. Also, explore all senior living options such as assisted living facilities or nursing homes. Maybe your aging parent does not need full-time care at first, and a daily part-time home attendant can do. Maybe they will require full-time medical care later on in life.
Thirdly, if you have a sibling, discuss the situation with him or her. Make sure you and your siblings are all on the same page. Settle any disagreements you have regarding this decision before talking to your aging parent.
Fourthly, it’s also a good idea to have the conversation sooner than later. Don’t wait for a medical emergency before you discuss the issue. Also, prolonging this conversation will not be helpful to your aging parent. You never know when something might go wrong or when they need immediate special assistance.
Fifthly, if your parent is not ready to move to a senior living facility, don’t insist. Do revisit the topic now and then but don’t push your point of view. Respect your aging parent’s decision and if they are not ready for the step, give it time.
Takeaway
The decision to move to an assisted living facility can be an overwhelming one for aging parents. Give them time to absorb the idea and don’t push them. This will just lead your parents to become defensive, and it will end the conversation. Help your aging parents come to the realization that moving to an assisted living facility would be beneficial for them, and they will enjoy their journey there.
