It is difficult to convince your loved one to leave their home and move to assisted living. It may seem like they are making the right decision, but there are a number of factors that can make it difficult. You need to consider your loved one’s personality traits and the space they will be living in. If they have pets or other small children, then you need to be very considerate of where you place them. You want to make sure that you can still maintain a certain level of privacy for them but also that there is sufficient light and space for activities and socializing.
This article will give you some tips on how you can ensure that your loved one agrees to move to assisted living.
Bring Up Assisted Living in Your Casual Conversations
When the time comes that you feel assisted living is necessary for a loved one, bringing up the topic in casual conversation may be your best strategy. This will help to ease any anxiety they may feel and make it a more natural transition. You can mention how you’ve been reading about different types of communities and how you think it might be a good idea for them to check out some places. If they are resistant, be understanding and let them know that you’re simply trying to help them stay safe and healthy. Compromise by agreeing to look at a few places together so they can get a sense of what’s available. Remember, this is their decision in the end and you should support their choice, whatever it may be.
Visit Assisted Living Communities with Your Parent
If considering assisted living for a loved one, it’s important to visit a few retirement communities together and get a feel for what’s available. The best way to do this is to take your parent on a tour of the community. Most communities offer tours several times a week, and they’re typically led by the activity director or another staff member.
During the tour, be sure to ask lots of questions. Find out what the daily routine is like, what activities are offered, and what the food is like. Take note of how your loved one reacts to the community. If they seem hesitant or uncomfortable, that’s usually a sign that it’s not the right fit. That said, don’t be discouraged if your parent isn’t too keen on the idea of moving to assisted living at first.
Discuss How Assisted Living Can Improve Quality of Life
Using personal events is the best way to make your case. Personal events can be anything from a health scare to simply wanting a maintenance-free lifestyle. No matter what the event, explaining how assisted living can improve the situation is key.
Point out the benefits of an assisted living lifestyle. An assisted living community provides a safe, secure, and maintenance-free lifestyle, with plenty of engaging programming available. This can be a big relief for caretakers, who no longer have to worry about day-to-day tasks like grocery shopping or cleaning.
Remind them of all the things they love to do. An assisted living community offers residents plenty of opportunities to stay active and engaged. They can continue playing golf or bridge, taking art classes or dancing lessons, and so on. By emphasizing all the great benefits of moving to assisted living, you’ll make it easier for your loved one to take the next step.
Be Patient
It is important to remember that this is a big decision for them, and they may need time to think about it. Be patient and let them take their time in making a decision.
Emphasize that you’re not trying to take away their independence. You’re simply looking out for their well-being and want them to have the best possible quality of life.
Let them know that you’re available to help with anything they need once they move into assisted living.
