It can be difficult to talk about assisted living with your loved ones. Moving to an assisted living community is frequently perceived as a restriction of freedom, and your parents may avoid discussing the subject out of fear of being driven out of their homes. As a child, you may also try to skip the conversation as you don’t know how your loved one will react.
While moving is a significant change, assisted living can actually increase your loved one’s independence, enhance their social well-being, and provide aid with their day-to-day activities. However, many families put off this discussion for far too long. Bringing up the topic of assisted living with your elderly parents early can help eliminate fear and ambiguity. The following suggestions can help to establish a constructive discussion regarding assisted living rather than one replete with anxiety or frustration.
Involved Your Loved One in the Decision-Making Process
Everybody wants to be allowed to decide where they prefer to stay and how they are cared for. If your parents are in good enough health, invite them to accompany you on tours of assisted living communities or visits to relatives and friends who’ve already made the transition. Seeing these settings in person, having a sense of how they work, and communicating openly with current residents about their experiences would be quite beneficial when making a choice. Involve them in all the decision-making processes and hear their opinions.
Use a Positive Tone
One way to make sure that this talk goes smoothly is to convey it carefully. When discussing assisted living, use pleasant, non-threatening language. Highlight the fun activities, a wide range of amenities, and socialization opportunities instead of health care.
The tone of your voice can also make a significant impact. Bear in mind to use a gentle tone and reassure your parents they are the ones who have the final say. Be open-minded and acknowledge your parents’ emotions. If they get frustrated, don’t add fuel to the fire. You’ll only end up with an argument.
Look Into the Progression of Illness
Learn about the progression of a chronic medical illness, such as Parkinson’s disease or dementia, if your loved one has been diagnosed. Certain age-related disorders can impair their capacity to remain at home or make an educated decision of moving into assisted living. Share with them the information you’ve gathered through research and from the doctor, and discuss how services offered by assisted living communities are beneficial in the long term. The dedicated professionals at an assisted living community can provide medical attention round-the-clock and monitor their condition closely.
Understand Why Your Loved One Prefers to Remain at Home
Your loved ones might have the misconception that they are being abandoned if they move to assisted living. They might be afraid of losing contact with family members and prefer to stay in a familiar setting. Addressing their fears and concerns during discussions can help clear up misunderstandings. Emphasize that living in an assisted living community actually gives them more time to enjoy the things they do because housekeeping and maintenance are taken care of. They can participate in many health and wellness programs and meet new friends of their age. Your loved ones might not change their minds immediately. Keep up positivity and they may eventually see why it’s better to choose assisted living.
