Empty nesters spend a sizeable amount of time home alone. Even if some steps like setting up surveillance cameras are taken, they are still at risk. As their capacity to function properly gradually deteriorates, regular tasks such as showering and clothing themselves might cause them a significant amount of distress.
This is when moving your aging parents to assisted living would be the wise decision. It may be daunting and unpleasant to have that talk, but it’s essential to encourage them in embracing the advantages of assisted living. If you’re not sure how to persuade your aging parent to move to an assisted living community, here are some tips to help them overcome their doubts.
Set the Scene in a Positive Way
It’s important not to broach the topic as if you’ve already decided for them. Start by informing them about assisted living communities, where they can meet similar-minded individuals and lead a much safer, stress-free, and joyful life. Help them realize how assisted living is a good alternative and not a forced choice. Assure them that they can choose to reside there for the comfort, security, convenience, and the key reason being that their health will be very well cared for.
Conduct Thorough Research
Familiarize yourself with everything on offer in the assisted living communities nearby. Look through all the photo galleries and virtual tours of assisted living communities and shortlist a few. Then ask your parents if they would agree to take a tour of these communities together. If they’re opposed to the idea, don’t press them but simply put it off till another day. In the meantime, you can bring up some misconceptions about assisted living and help to debunk the myths.
Schedule Full Tours with Your Aging Parent
When your parents are more receptive to the idea, arrange a complete tour of the shortlisted assisted living communities. Tag along and encourage them to observe how everything runs and check out the different suites, apartment homes, and floor plans. Encourage them to try out an enjoyable dining experience and even participate in a fun activity they like. Be sure to ask for their thoughts and opinions of each location you visit!
Bring Up Learning Moments
If your aging parents once dodged an injury by only a hair’s breadth, it’s a good time to bring up the subject of assisted living. Explain to them how this scenario may have been prevented if someone was constantly there to assist them. A kind dose of reality can persuade them that assisted living is a suitable alternative.
Talk to Others Who’ve Been There
Have conversations with any family friends who are in assisted living communities and assist your parents in gaining a better understanding of how things function and feel. This will get you objective information and help persuade your parents that it’s a great community to retire in.
Give Them All the Time They Need
Most importantly, give your folks however much time and control they need to really contemplate the benefits of moving to assisted living. Emphasize the fact that you recommended this ideal living option to them out of love and concern, not out of the inconvenience of caring for them. This is a big change, so patience is key.
