Discussing your parent’s changing needs and living situation may not be the easiest conversation, but it’s important. Assisted living can help your loved one retain independence and improve their quality of life.
Here are seven tips to help you start the conversation.
Have the Discussion Now
It’s never too early to talk. Discussing assisted living with your mom or dad before they need it gives them time to make decisions and provide opinions about their long-term care. Your parent may resist the idea of assisted living, so talking now gives you both time to revisit the topic if the conversation doesn’t go as planned.
Be Honest About Your Concerns
Honesty is critical. Trying to mislead your loved one about your intentions can cause miscommunication, tension and relationship troubles.
Here are some questions to consider before talking with your senior:
- Are you concerned about their health and safety?
- Do you worry you can’t provide them the care they need on your own?
- Has your loved one had more accidents or falls recently?
Answering those questions will help you give credence to your stance on the need for assisted living. It will also give your loved one perspective and show them you’re coming from a place of love.
Check Your Emotions
This can be a sensitive subject to discuss, so be prepared for an emotional response from your mom or dad. They may resist the idea of assisted living out of fear of losing their independence or home. It’s important not to respond in anger or frustration despite how your parent reacts, as it may cause them to get defensive. Step away and suggest talking another time if the conversation gets too tense.
Give Them Time to Process
Your parent has lived independently for most of their life, so it’s natural for them to resist what may seem like giving up that lifestyle. Regardless of their emotional response, your mom or dad will likely need time to evaluate the potential life change.
Don’t tell them what to do or give ultimatums. Remember the parent-child role and how it may be difficult to accept this type of direction from the one they’ve cared for most of their life.
Listen to Their Concerns
Everyone wants to feel heard and that their opinions matter. Regardless of age, your parent still has the right to determine how and where they live. Let them express their concerns freely and be an active listener. Discussions should be conversations, not lectures, so ask them questions to understand the source of their hesitation.
Visit Assisted Living Communities Together
Your loved one may have misconceptions about assisted living, which is why taking tours is essential. Visiting assisted living communities will allow your parent to see what daily living is like and can help them envision themselves in the space. It’s also a good time for both of you to ask questions about personal and medical services, dining options, privacy, activities, transportation and cost of living.
Have Multiple Conversations
Making the transition to assisted living is a big step and will likely require several discussions. Even if your senior is on board, revisiting the topic will help you understand your loved one’s expectations. Getting other family members involved is a good way to give your parent different perspectives. It also helps your mom or dad see how loved and important they are to their family and friends.
Embassy Healthcare’s assisted living services reduce hospitalization risk, improve physical and emotional health and boost socialization. Call 216-378-2050 or schedule a tour online.
