If your parents are getting on in years, how do you raise the subject of getting them some assistance? Whether or not they should sell their house and relocate to senior living in San Antonio, TX, it is not an easy conversation to start, but it might save their life and improve their quality of life if you do it right.
Use these guidelines as a starting point for a conversation with an elderly parent regarding assisted living, senior care, and the future of your family.
Preparing for the Discussion
Prepare yourself by doing some reading. Get ready for the discussion of senior care before you bring it up:
- Make a note of everything that worries you about your aging loved one. Is it the case, for instance, that you fear they no longer feel secure in their own home? Is there something wrong with their health? Do they need help getting dressed, grooming themselves, taking a bath, or managing their medications? You could benefit from hearing the opinions of other family members on your concerns, so do not hesitate to bring it up. Jot down whatever you notice.
- As you gain knowledge about senior care options including assisted living and retirement communities, you can make an informed decision regarding the best option for your aging parent. It can be difficult to recognize the extent to which a loved one is in need of assistance, and you may find yourself downplaying the gravity of the situation. However, attempt to maintain a neutral stance. Your parents and you may worry about how communities deal with crises like flu and COVID-19 outbreaks but you can learn more about the community’s safety measures by visiting their website or calling to inquire.
- Understand the significance of their living circumstances. Location and surroundings affect not just one’s physical well-being but also one’s mental and emotional well-being and, ultimately, their lifespan. You can better handle the situation if you educate yourself about these factors.
You can gain the self-assurance and credibility you need to initiate the conversation by exploring your choices and learning more about healthy aging. However, just because you are curious does not mean you should relocate your aging loved ones from their home without consulting them first. Rather, you need to be doing everything you can to make the most of the next discussion and decisions.
Tops for a Better Conversation with Aging Parents
After you have done your research and feel comfortable explaining the options, you are set to have a fruitful conversation by keeping the following in mind:
- It is best to have the talk right away rather than waiting for a health catastrophe to push the subject. Discussing this difficult decision early will enable all of you to reach a decision and start planning with much less pressure.
- Talk in person, if possible. If you can be together to have a face-to-face discussion, that is an excellent way. Alternatively, arrange a video call so that you can at least see each other. Try to schedule it for a time when both you and your parent are feeling refreshed and calm. Block out a time and a location where you can converse without interruption.
