The decision to transition your loved one to assisted living or supportive living community is difficult for both parties, but it’s especially hard when they refuse to consider the move altogether. It’s a common occurrence among older adults, one which requires delicate handling. Many seniors refuse assisted living or supportive living communities for the following reasons:
Consider the following tips to help ease your loved one’s worries and help them give an assisted living or supportive living community a chance:
1. Be Sensitive
Rather than arguing and fighting about the decision to move, take the time to hear your loved one out. Listen to their concerns and remain sensitive to their feelings; this will assure them that they have a say in the decision. Sometimes it’s best to leave the topic alone for a while and then gently bring it up again at a later time.
2. Explain the Benefits
Emphasizing the wonderful things that assisted and supportive living communities have to offer can help make the idea of moving more appealing to your senior. Explain that these communities can enhance their independence while also providing the luxury of nearby care. Tell them that these communities can also provide other benefits such as relieving the many stresses of home ownership and offering a variety of fun social activities.
3. Voice Your Concern
Make sure you are open and honest in every conversation about the topic and let them know that this decision benefits all involved. By knowing that they are safe and being well cared for, you can relax and enjoy your time with them more fully. If they see that you are concerned about how they are managing, they may be more inclined to consider the move.
4. Assure That You’re Here to Help
Some of your loved one’s worry can also come from the belief that they have to make the transition alone or take care of all the hassles of moving on their own. Remind them that you will be there for them and are available to help them in any way you can before, during, and after the move. Doing so can eliminate feelings of abandonment.
