Although making the move to assisted living is a decision made in an older adult’s best interests, it is often the reality that loved ones can feel guilty about this transition. While this is not uncommon, it can result in feelings of shame and self-reproach that do not help anyone, and which may not even be steeped in the truth.
In this article, we share with you why you should stop feeling guilty about making the transition to assisted living in Inez, TX, on behalf of your loved one.
No Two Families or Situations Are the Same
One reason you may be feeling guilty is if your friends, neighbors, or others around you have managed to keep their elderly loved ones cared for at home. Whether or not they are insinuating that you should be able to do the same, the feeling of guilt can persist. However, it is important to keep in mind that no two families or situations are the same.
For one thing, your loved one may have a more serious health condition that requires constant, professional care. You or your other family members may also have an underlying condition, or your own health may be suffering, making it challenging for you to take care of your elderly loved one. The truth is that no one truly understands the situation you are in and therefore, is not qualified to make any judgments on your decision.
Making the Move Is Caring for Your Loved One
It’s simply not true that because you have decided it’s best for your loved one to make the move, you do not care about them or do not wish to take care of them. When it becomes impossible to provide the level of care they require at home, making the move can be a loving decision made in their best interests.
Chances are, you will still continue taking care of your loved one, even if they are no longer living at home. From visiting them to checking in with their care team and advocating for their needs, just because your loved one is living in a retirement community doesn’t mean that you have abandoned them.
No One Has Control Over Someone Else’s Health
If you are struggling with thoughts that your loved one would be in a better health condition if they had just stayed at home with you, dispel those thoughts immediately. No one has control over anyone else’s health, wellness, or cognitive condition, and you simply don’t know that if you had kept your loved one at home with you, they would be in a better condition.
It’s very possible that the outcome would have been the same or even worse, especially if you are not a healthcare professional and are not trained to care for someone with your loved one’s condition. Above all, remember that you made this decision because you love your parent, grandparent, spouse, or relative, and want them to have the best.
