Parents have always been there for us; their advice has provided valuable guidance at critical points in our lives. But as they grow older, it often becomes necessary for the roles to be reversed. As adult children take on an advisory role for their mom and dad, they may need to provide input regarding retirement, medical care, finances, and, eventually, an appropriate living situation. You may have become concerned about your senior parent’s ability to live independently.

However, it can be challenging to approach the topic of moving to an adult residence. People are often reluctant to change, especially if it means relinquishing a sense of freedom or independence. Having this conversation with parents can be intimidating, and you may be worried about hurting their feelings. When you broach the subject, extend patience and understanding, and use these tips to facilitate your conversation.

  1. Listen Seriously to their Objections: The most effective way to understand why your senior parents are so reluctant to move to a senior living residence is to listen to them genuinely. Your mom or dad may understandably be sad to leave their lifelong home, where they raised a family. They may feel that they can’t afford senior living or fear feeling abandoned or isolated. Listen to their feelings and emotions without judgment, and refrain from trying to change their mind in the initial conversations. After all, their concerns and fears are very real to them and deserve consideration.
  2. Explore the Benefits: Assisted living facilities are designed to help senior citizens optimize their health and wellness, both mentally and physically. But many seniors are reluctant to move because they don’t understand the benefits, such as the opportunity to create new relationships and explore new activities. They will receive nutritious meals, have the daily help they need, and feel secure in their environment. Call for more information if you aren’t aware of the benefits these types of residences offer.
  3. Schedule a Visit: Without threatening to sign them up, ask your parents to accompany you on a local senior living community tour. They may have a negative connotation regarding these residences, but a personal tour can show them that today’s assisted living facilities are vibrant and active communities. They can meet the staff, view available floorplans, participate in a scheduled activity, or have a meal in the dining room. Speaking with residents, they will gain insight into the reality of living in a community with others of the same age.
  4. Consult with Their Doctors: Often, seniors living independently may pose a risk to themselves because of memory loss or reduced mobility. Loneliness or depression can also significantly impact their health and wellness – both are aggravated when seniors live alone. Their doctor may agree that making a move to a senior living residence is necessary to maintain health and safety, both physically and emotionally. If their physician agrees, they can discuss their thoughts with their senior parents.
  5. Discuss Financial Implications Together: Most older adults assume that a senior living residence is too expensive for their available income. However, senior living communities typically offer an all-inclusive living scenario for a single monthly fee, which may equate to the expenses of maintaining a home, buying food, and paying for caregivers. Listen carefully to your parents’ financial concerns, and then help them to work out the budget. If they work with a financial advisor, they can join the conversation to discuss the reality of paying for an assisted living facility.

Your parents may not immediately love the idea of moving to an assisted living facility. Still, over time they may warm up to the idea by pointing out the benefits and providing information. If you genuinely believe this is the best option for your family, remind them of the sense of freedom a maintenance-free lifestyle can provide.

Finally, involve your parents in any decisions affecting them as much as possible. Working with My Care Finders is an effective and practical way to learn more about your options and determine which local facility is best for you. Call today to schedule an appointment for you and your parents to begin the process.