Going into the conversation well-informed helps you share details that are relevant to your loved one. You'll also be able to speak on the topic more thoroughly by having the information necessary. Start by exploring what's available in your area to find options that might appeal to your family member. Consider the location of different communities and the amenities they offer. Those under the Bethesda Senior Living Communities umbrella offer faith-based environments with robust services, friendly environments and engaging activity calendars.
Familiarize yourself with the services that are typically available in assisted living communities. Residents receive round-the-clock support, including help with getting dressed, moving around, showering and going to the bathroom. Consider factors such as staff training, staff-to-resident ratios and security features.
Use what you know about your family member to plan your conversation. Anticipating what they might say can help you adjust your communication to reduce their concerns or overcome their objections. It's also helpful to consider what type of communication they prefer. Some people like straightforward communication, while others might respond better to moving into the topic slowly and gently.
Part of tailoring the conversation is timing it well. Choosing a calm time can keep the discussion positive and productive. A private one-on-one conversation or a small group of concerned family members is often better received than a large group where the person feels singled out.
If you feel your loved one needs assisted living, you've likely noticed changes in their physical or mental health that make living alone risky. They might be noticing those changes themselves, but it's not always easy to admit the need for help. Talking about the concerns you have and the potential risks you've noticed can be helpful in convincing your loved one to consider the move. However, it can also be difficult to hear, so approach the topic sensitively.
To keep the conversation positive, focus on the benefits of living in an assisted living community. Discuss how the support staff makes it easier for residents to stay independent longer. Reviewing the amenities that appeal to your loved one's interests can make the move more appealing. You can also touch on the perks of not having to maintain a home and having controlled costs.
Moving to a senior living community is a big change, and your loved one is likely to have strong emotions related to the move. Allow them to share those feelings, and listen to them fully without dismissing those emotions. The objections that they have about the move often help you shape your next conversation about the topic or ease their concerns. For example, they might not fully understand what an assisted living community is like, or they might confuse assisted living with other types of senior living, such as memory care or long-term care. Explaining that assisted living allows them to have full freedom over their day with some extra support may make them feel more positive about the change.
It may take your family member time to accept the idea of assisted living. Bringing up the topic initially is only the first step in the process. Go into the conversation knowing that your loved one might not agree to the move right away. Be patient and continue to bring up the topic periodically if you still feel they need the extra support. You might also revisit the topic after a new development. For instance, if they have a medical situation that reduces their mobility, you might discuss how an assisted living apartment could help them maintain more independence. This also gives you a chance to discuss the financial aspects of assisted living.
Even if you've already researched communities in the area, searching again with your loved one involves them in the process. They feel more in control over the move. No matter how well you know your family member, you might be surprised by which options they prefer. You might look at websites for different options or drive by the communities to compare the size and feel of each one.
For some older adults, it's difficult to imagine what life is like in a senior living community. Your loved one might have negative perceptions of what the community is like. Touring several options in the area gives them a look at the features and amenities they get as a resident. Visits also let them connect with current residents and hear their perspectives on living there. A tour could help your loved one become more excited about the possibilities.
