If you want to know how to talk to seniors about assisted living, it requires that your loved ones understand what it is, and what they gain from it.
Assisted living refers to housing that provides nursing care and housekeeping for the elderly or disabled. This usually provides an outstanding service for senior citizens, but it usually requires some convincing. Seniors may not see the purpose of such facilities, and might refuse to go. This change is difficult for both the seniors and their family members.
While you would love to have them around, you also realize that you cannot provide the best care that they need as you try to care for your own family, or fit in your job. A senior loved one, on the other hand, might still feel strong and independent. In addition, the thought of a complete stranger helping them does not fit in the equation.
Sound Advice on How to Talk to Seniors About Assisted Living
The million dollar question is: how do you talk to seniors about assisted living? Here are some suggestions:
• Gradually Discussing the Idea – You cannot wake up one morning and decide to ask any elderly person to move to an assisted living facility. If you do, they probably won’t budge. Instead, try to introduce the topic as a general conversation between the rest of the family and your loved one. From the conversation, you will be able to gather enough information as to what everyone thinks about the idea.
At this point, you are able to counter any concerns they raise without having to make them feel dependent and bothersome. Remember, this is a gradual step by step discussion.
• Visit Other Seniors in Assisted Living Facilities – Contact other family members and friends to find out if they have any senior family member in an assisted living facility. If they do, use the opportunity and visit them with your elderly loved one. This is a terrific time for him or her to see how other seniors are living.
Although, your loved one might not want to listen to your reasoning to move to a senior facility, they might change their mind if other seniors have a swell time, too. Not only that, it’s also an apt time for you to feel more comfortable by knowing that your loved on will be receiving the best of care.
• Discuss the Benefits – Explain to your loved one in simple terms how seniors can benefit by moving to an assisted living facility. Explain security and safety issues that might arise if they are left home alone. Explain to them that you don’t want anything to happen. They could slip and fall while you are not there, or they might have a medical emergency that needs immediate attention.
• Patience – Patience and understanding are paramount when deciding how to talk to seniors about assisted living. It can be difficult, and if you find that they are strongly resisting your advice, it’s best to let the discussion rest until another time. You should never give up. Instead, you should realize that eventually, they are more likely to see the reasoning behind your suggestion.
How to Talk to Seniors about Assisted Living – Conclusion
Our seniors need someone to help them take care of their day-to-day activities. The way in which you talk to seniors about assisted living may help them make the right decision regarding better care. This decision will help family members rest easier.
