If your parent is having trouble completing basic tasks around the house, assisted living may be a good option. However, the idea of bringing up the topic to your parent may seem daunting. Many seniors are resistant to moving into an assisted living facility because they believe they will lose their independence. Here are a few tips for talking about assisted living with your parent.
Have the Conversation Early
It is better to bring up the topic of assisted living sooner rather than later. If you delay having the conversation until your parent gets ill, there may be more pressure on everyone. If you start talking about it now, you will have other chances to bring it up in the future if your parent initially resists.
Talk About the Positive Aspects
Some seniors may only hear about the negatives of assisted living and resist the idea of moving into a facility. That is why you should mention the positives aspects from the beginning, such as meeting new friends, participating in fun activities, and eating delicious meals. If your parent realizes that there are many good things about assisted living, he or she may be less resistant to it.
Listen to Your Parent's Concerns
If your parent has reservations about assisted living, do not dismiss them. Ask your parent why he or she is hesitant about moving into an assisted living facility and carefully listen to the answer. For example, your parent might be afraid that no one will visit him or her in the facility. If that's the case, reassure your parent that you will visit him or her often.
Don't Give Orders
No matter how much you may want your parent to live in an assisted living facility, you can't force him or her to go. If you start making demands or ultimatums, it will just make everything worse. Instead, calmly explain why you think your parent would benefit from assisted living.
Offer to Visit Assisted Living Facilities
It is a good idea for your parent to see what assisted living facilities are truly like. Schedule tours for a few assisted living facilities in your area and take your parent along. After your parent sees what they are all about, he or she may be more willing to move into one.
If you follow these helpful tips, it will be easier to talk about assisted living with your parent.
