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As our loved ones age, the chances of eventually needing some form of long-term senior care are inevitable.
When a loved one needs senior living, it affects the entire family. Your loved one may be resistant, afraid, and even angry. Family members may feel overwhelmed, and some may disagree with transitioning a loved one to senior living.
In addition, the senior living industry is massive, complicating things even more! According to Seniorliving.org, the senior living industry generates annual revenue exceeding $94 billion, with roughly 9.5 million U.S. seniors living in long-term care communities.
7 tips for successful conversations with family members about transitioning to senior living
1. Preparation and Timing are Crucial
Preparation and timing are essential when discussing transitioning a loved one to senior living. If possible, discuss the possibility of senior living and options before there’s a need.
The best and most productive time for a successful conversation about senior living is before a crisis when everyone is calm and can think clearly.
Once senior living is needed because of a health issue or emergency, family members are stressed and rushed, leading to conflict and hastily made decisions.
Before initiating discussions, choose a private, neutral, and comfortable setting where the family can talk without interruptions.
2. Research Senior Living Options
Most senior living communities provide various services and amenities in a supportive, socially active environment with planned activities and events. They differ in the types of care offered.
Here are the most popular senior living options:
Independent or Retirement: Perfect for healthy older adults who don’t require help with personal care but are looking for a maintenance-free lifestyle in a vibrant, socially active community.
Assisted Living: Designed for active seniors who need help with activities of daily living such as bathing, toileting, dressing, or eating.
Memory Care: These communities provide specialized care and services for seniors with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.
Before meeting with family, educate yourself on the various senior living options available.
This will allow you to answer questions and confidently suggest senior living options that meet your loved one's needs and preferences.
3. Acknowledge and Respect Everyone’s Opinions
Family members have different personalities, emotions, experiences, and opinions. The biggest mistake families make is not acknowledging and respecting everyone’s views.
Discussing senior living for a loved one is a touchy subject, and emotions will run high.
Allowing everyone to voice their concerns and acknowledge their fears, emotions, and opinions creates a safe space of mutual respect and understanding.
4. Include Your Loved One in the Decision Making
If possible, include your loved one in the discussion and decision-making. It’s essential for seniors to feel like they have a say in their future and their opinions are valued and respected.
Ask your loved one about their preferences, needs, and wants regarding a senior living community. Include them in senior living tours so they can see the community, talk to residents, ask questions, check out the activity calendar, sample a meal, and view available living spaces.
5. Empathize and Listen
Moving to a senior living community is a significant life change for seniors. They may be upset, afraid, and angry, which is normal.
It’s vital to approach the conversation with empathy and compassion. Listen carefully and respectfully to your loved one's concerns, fears, and preferences.
Let your loved one know you understand their concerns and that your priority is to find a community they will enjoy that will ensure their comfort and safety.
6. Focus on the Benefits of Senior Living
Although many seniors and their families are hesitant to move to senior living communities, they’re pleasantly surprised by the benefits of the senior living lifestyle.
Senior living communities are designed to accommodate the unique needs of older adults.
They provide a safe, secure, and supportive environment in which many seniors find they thrive.
Check out the various services and amenities available to Allegro Senior Living residents:
- Housekeeping
- Laundry services
- Group-oriented activities
- Offsite-site excursions and trips
- Health and wellness programs
- Chef prepared meals
- Beauty salons
- Pools
7. Consult Professionals
If the conversation becomes too difficult or emotional, or if your family cannot agree, it may help to bring in a professional third party.
Senior living community advisors, professional therapists, elder care attorneys, and financial advisors. These professionals can provide guidance and resources, answer questions, and mediate family discussions.
Wrap-up
Although family conversations about senior living can be overwhelming, successfully navigating a successful conversation is a delicate process requiring planning, patience, and empathy.
Download your free copy of our Successful Transitions Guide and contact us today for more information about living options at Allegro Senior Living Communities.
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