As our loved ones age, it’s natural to start thinking about their future care. However, it’s not always an easy conversation to have. Some seniors may be resistant to the idea of moving into a senior living community. So what can you do if a senior in your life is reluctant to consider senior living?
Senior living communities offer a range of services and amenities that can greatly improve the quality of life for seniors. However, the decision to move into one can be a difficult one, and many seniors are hesitant to leave the comfort of their own homes. This can be a source of stress and concern for their loved ones.
If you are facing this situation, it’s important to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding. There are several strategies you can use to help a senior or parent feel more comfortable with the idea of senior living.
1. Listen to Their Concerns
If a senior parent is reluctant to consider senior living, it is important to listen to their concerns. Ask them about why they are hesitant and what they feel would be missing from moving into a senior living situation. Validate their feelings and reassure them that their concerns will be heard and addressed. Try to understand their perspective, ask follow-up questions, and listen without judgment. Showing respect and empathy is important for establishing trust and a better understanding of their needs.
2. Explain the Benefits
Explain the many benefits of living in an independent living community. From increased socialization opportunities to more access to medical professionals and assistance with daily tasks, there are many advantages that could be beneficial. Discussing the potential advantages of senior living can help them see that it may be a viable option for them.
3. Offer to Visit
Offer to take them to visit a few different senior living communities. Seeing the facilities and talking with residents can help your parent get a better feel for what living in such an environment would be like. During visits, encourage them to ask questions and take note of the amenities and services offered.
4. Explain How the Amenities Could Help Them
When discussing senior living, it’s important to explain how the amenities and services could help them in their daily life. From on-site fitness classes and swimming pools to regular outings and transportation services, there are many ways that an assisted living facility can provide support for seniors’ activities of daily living. Explain how access to recreational opportunities and help with daily activities could make their lives easier and more enjoyable. And, senior apartments often have safety features like grab bars & emergency cords in case of a fall or other emergency.
5. Talk About Costs
It’s also important to have a conversation about the costs associated with senior living. Many seniors are concerned about the financial burden of moving into a community, so it’s important to discuss ways to cover the cost of care. For example, you can talk about long-term care insurance, veterans’ benefits, or other financial aid options to help offset the cost.
6. Consider a Trial Run
Some seniors may feel more secure if they can start out with a trial run. Offer to help them find a short-term stay option at one of the assisted living facilities that allow them to rent an apartment or room on a month-to-month basis. This can give them time to get comfortable with the community and its services before making a long-term commitment.
7. Ask for Help
If your parent is still not sure, it may be helpful to reach out to experts in the field who can provide additional insight and advice. Talking with a geriatric care manager, social worker, or eldercare attorney may help them understand their options better and make an informed decision.
8. Make a Pros and Cons List
Help your parent make a pros and cons list of all the factors involved in making the decision to move into an assisted living community. Have them consider things like cost, proximity to family and friends, available activities, health care services, safety features, and other important considerations. This exercise can help them see that there are both positives and negatives to the decision and can help them make an informed decision.
Choose the Best Community for You
The Gardens at Oasis is proud to be an independently owned and operated community with home-grown folks who care about you and get to know you. The Gardens is a great place to retire, relax and really thrive. Give us a call today and let us show you our vibrant and caring community!
