We all want to live in our own homes as long as possible, and understandably so for older adults who have lived in their homes for decades. However, it may not be in their best interests to continue doing so, especially if their health declines. It is hard to convince your aging parent to part with their homes full of memories to move to assisted living, which to them is a completely unfamiliar environment altogether. Most will be resistant and some may even react badly. So how can we talk to them about moving to assisted living homes In Ellijay, GA?
Plant The Seed
Don’t speak about moving to assisted living like you have already made the decision for them. Broach the topic slowly in bite-sized portions by slipping it in a series of casual conversations. Talking about this in a casual setting relieves any sense of anxiety they might feel, and by bringing up assisted living as a suggestion allows them to feel respected and that they have control over the decision. Always communicate your intent to help them stay safe so that they do not misunderstand your reason for raising this topic.
Exercise Patience
This will be a big change for them, so if they refuse the suggestion in the first few conversations, understand that that is normal and it might even take more conversations over several months to get them to agree. Always be patient when speaking to them about this in order not to turn them off about the idea. It may help for you to focus on the benefits of assisted living and the peace of mind that the move will bring both your parent and the whole family.
Get Reviews
Sometimes, our parents may reject to move due to some prior misconceptions about moving to retirement communities. You could ask around to see if there is anyone around you who they themselves or their parents have moved to assisted living and arrange a conversation between them and your parent so that your loved one can hear about their living experience in the communities. You can also show them online reviews of the community. Hearing impartial first-hand information from someone who is currently in assisted living may have a better effect in convincing your loved one than having them hear about the community from you.
Visit the Communities In Person
To help your parent better understand what assisted living is and what it offers, you can arrange for both of you to take a tour of the community. Let them see for themselves what the apartments look like, what food they can expect to eat daily as well as what amenities and programs await them. You can have your parent personally speak to current residents there and the team members too. It is important that both you and your parent get a chance to speak to the team members as these will be your parents’ primary point of contact should they agree to move to the community. These people will be the ones in charge of caring for them too.
