Discussing Senior Living with a Loved One
Truly Unique Assisted Living
A place of love & support where independence thrives.
Discussing Senior Living with a Loved One
Despite our age, we all continue to be creatures of habit. Just like everyone else, an aging parent desires to continue living life on their own terms, by having a say in what happens next.
We are all used to doing things our own way. The way we drink our coffee, make our eggs, where shoes should be within our home. Most of us don’t even think about details like these. So, sudden and uncontrollable changes to these routines would stress our daily lives.
Now, consider that with a senior family member. They are also used to being autonomous, to doing things their way. Senior family members may resist any unwanted or uncontrollable change. With good reason.
Moving out of their home is significant. It is a major change in their lives.
So, if you must approach the subject of considering a move to a senior living community, consider the advice below.
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Talk to Them
Communication is key to life-changing events. Be honest with your senior loved ones. If they cannot care for themselves and lack support, the conversation is not simple. Because without the right support, seniors may suffer from injury or declining health.
So, talk to them. Approach the subject with kindness, reasoning, and honesty. It is also imperative to listen. Listen to their reasons for not being ready to make this move.
Together, you and your loved one can have constructive conversations regarding their needs. Keep in mind, decisions take time, allowing for multiple conversations on the subject.
Be Encouraging
Remind them they still have a voice, and their opinions are valid. Senior living is not something that will stop them from continuing to enjoy their lives. But rather, an opportunity to meet new friends, learn, stay active, and get the care and support they need.
In the end, this will be an ongoing discussion. Let them keep their choice and control. Otherwise, they may dislike the idea more than they already do.
Be Honest
Lastly, be open about the changes when transitioning to a senior living community. But be sure to include the positives. Despite being away from their familiar homes, they can still personalize their space without the need for upkeep!
Highlight the Benefits
While a senior family member may think they are losing a lot in their transition, tell them about all the things they gain. Senior living communities feature complete services and amenities to serve residents. Some of which include:
Tailored Support
Within senior living communities, the staff provides care based on the needs of the residents. No single plan of care applies to all residents. Instead, they benefit from personalized care that meets their needs.
Which ensures comprehensive support and as much independence as possible.
Personal Space
Most communities offer apartments or other forms of personal space. A place will be provided for your loved one to make their own.
This is a critical component. Because here, they can bring belongings and decorate their apartment. Which brings familiarity and lets them add the personal touch of home.
Delicious Dining
No need to worry about cooking!
Residents can choose from a menu that features meal options. This can include breakfast options, varied lunches, and delectable dinners. To satisfy those with bigger appetites, there are always snacks available.
Engaging Activities
Communities organize events, activities, and outings for residents to take part. They are free to take part with friends and enjoy things like walking clubs and exercise classes.
With fun and engaging activities, residents have an easy outlet that helps them stay healthy.
Effortless Living
No. More. Home. Maintenance.
Read that again. Residents do not have to worry about the constant vacuuming, sweeping, laundry, and other upkeep a home requires.
While staff handle all these chores. Residents can instead focus on truly important things. Like spending time with friends, family, and simply having fun.
Discover Communities Together
Finding the right community is important. You want to ensure that it offers the right care, support, and your loved one likes it. So, open your favorite browser and begin your search.
Explore your Ideal Area
Proximity to your loved one is an important consideration. Be close enough for visits or any reason. But distance becomes less important for the care of your loved one. If there are no viable options in the area, you may have to expand your search.
Depending on where you live, you may have limited options. So, searching a little farther may be your best bet.
Schedule Community Visits
Most senior living communities welcome visitors. They are happy to talk to seniors and their families to show them what their community offers.
If you find a community that fits your needs, you and your loved one should go visit it. This will provide you with insight about the community and learn more about their services.
If it makes sense for you, a second visit would not be a bad idea. It will give you a chance to contrast it with your first visit and ask questions you may not have thought of before. Plus, getting to know the staff is a benefit if it is your community of choice.
Meet The Staff
Scheduling visits will make this happen by default. But meeting the caregivers provides invaluable insight into the community. You can learn more about how they do everything and can ask direct, important questions.
How can Benton House Help?
Our team stands ready to serve as a resource for families seeking help with the care of their senior loved ones. We can discuss the care you need and find the right support. Even if your ultimate choice is not Benton House.
You can find our communities in Florida, Georgia, Kansas, and Missouri.
If you would like to learn more about our senior living services, please fill out the form found on this page. One of our knowledgeable team members will contact you and can discuss your needs in more detail.
Transitioning from living at home to a senior living community is not always easy. But with the right support, senior family members can learn about what they gain and become excited about the possibilities. Read more about moving a loved one into an assisted living community.
