As we grow older, many of us become set in our ways. This is not necessarily bad, as we have learned what we like and don’t. However, it can be unsettling when the time comes to make a major life change that disturbs our status quo. Fear of change is one of the most prevalent phobias in society and can be incredibly overwhelming for those who are faced with growing older and finding a new place to live.
If you have a parent or elderly loved one who needs to be moved into a new residence to keep them safe – whether it be your personal home or an assisted living facility – you can expect some level of stress. We have recommendations to help your loved one face inevitable change with confidence, not fear.
What Causes Fear of Change?
The older we get, the more susceptible we are to being uncomfortable with change. Experts believe that the longer something exists, the more likely it is that people have positive feelings about it. The lifestyle that someone has lived for decades is often seen as the best possible option. Another reason may be that senior adults have experienced scenarios when a change turned out badly.
Many circumstances may be behind an overwhelming or crippling fear of change. According to psychologists, these may include:
- Life changes and circumstances that result in emotional distress
- Insecurity or fear of not having enough
- Guilt over anything in their life
- Apprehension about meeting new people
- Anxiety about changes in one’s circumstances
- Fear of failure
- Fear of the past repeating itself, especially if there is a traumatic experience
- A tendency to be oversensitive
Fear surrounding change can cause behavioral changes and new thoughts that can adversely affect the quality of life. These may include:
- Preventing persons from making changes that are needed
- Avoiding any new situation, even if it sounds interesting
- Tendency to self-isolate
- Indecisiveness or hesitancy to make choices
- Reluctance to consider potential options, no matter how viable
- Tendency to define self-worth by outside opinions
- Dependence on acquiring material possessions
7 Recommendations to Embrace Hope and Excitement
When your family member needs to make lifestyle changes in order to safeguard their health, happiness and security, they need encouragement and support so that they feel hope – not fear.
- Help them to create a system of organization in their everyday tasks, so that their lives feel more feel stable. Once they feel safe, you can begin to incorporate small changes.
- Familiarize yourself with their anxiety symptoms so that you can recognize and address them.
- Remain positive in your communication and don’t be discouraged by your parent’s negative attitude. Anticipate likely objections and be prepared to respond positively.
- Allow them to participate in researching the solution you are suggesting. People tend to fear and avoid what they do not understand or cannot control.
- Offer opportunities for them to get out and do fun things they enjoy.
- Take a break whenever it is needed. If they begin to get overwhelmed, back off and let them digest any information you presented.
Change Can Be Positive and Exciting!
When you are discussing a new living situation with your parents, there are many ways you can help them to accept the needed change- but if you think the solution is memory care or assisted living, you may need to conquer your own fears first.
My Care Finders was founded with the goal of assisting families through this significant life change. Our knowledgeable and compassionate advisors are here to help you find the right community for your loved one – and remember, our services are always free of charge.
