Talking to an aging loved one about assisted living can be hard for a variety of reasons. Your loved one may be against leaving their home or having someone outside the family help them with daily tasks.
The conversation can get emotional for all parties, but it’s important to talk through it together in a respectful and empathetic manner. Learn helpful tips from Golden Bell Senior Living on how to encourage your loved one to consider assisted living as an option to meet their needs and improve their quality of life, overall health, and emotional well-being.
7 tips for talking to your loved one about assisted living
#1: Use talking points
Come prepared for the conversation with talking points. This is a great way to help you remember your concerns and questions, and the notes will likely keep you on topic.
#2: Lean on a neutral party for insights
Sometimes, having a neutral party that your loved one trusts and respects weigh in with their professional insights can help validate your concerns. For example, you may want to invite a physician, case manager, financial advisor, or spiritual leader to the conversation.
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#3: Find a time that’s best for everyone
Set aside time when you’re not in a hurry or feeling rushed. Find a date that works best for everyone so you can allow the discussion to flow naturally.
#4: Stay positive and keep the tone casual
Keep the tone casual and relaxed so you don’t appear pushy or negative. Ask your loved one questions about their concerns and wants for the future.
#5: Include your loved one in the conversation
Avoid creating a plan and dictating that plan to your loved one. Instead, include them in the conversation and decision-making process to encourage an honest and open conversation.
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#6: Acknowledge your loved one’s feelings
Be respectful of your loved one’s feelings, whether sadness, anger, fear, or a combination of these. Try not to parent your loved one by making sure they know they are being heard.
#7: Work together toward a decision
You can guide the conversation with your concerns, but make sure you collaborate toward a common goal – to ensure your loved one lives a meaningful life in a safe, supportive place.
Keep in mind that your conversation may take patience and several smaller discussions. You may need to share your concerns a little at a time so you don’t overwhelm your loved one or make them feel rushed or backed into a corner.
Many communities, like Golden Bell, offer respite care where seniors can stay in assisted living for a short period of time. Respite stays can be an ideal way to introduce your loved one to the new environment, and they can also meet some of the staff and residents.
Explore respite care at Golden Bell Senior Living >>
Discover assisted living in South Florida and South Carolina
Assisted living residents of Golden Bell’s Independence Hall and Williamsburg Landing in Wilton Manors, Florida, and Cumberland Hills in Aiken, South Carolina, enjoy resort-style living plus the additional support and assistance they need to live independently.
Assisted living includes a comprehensive activities program, delicious chef-prepared meals, and beautiful apartment suites. You can learn more about our assisted living communities on our website.
Life at Golden Bell Senior Living
Senior living communities like Golden Bell provide the comforts of home with the added benefits of supportive care, engaging activities, and a maintenance-free lifestyle. With your daily needs met, your loved one will live more independently and have opportunities to meet friends, discover new interests, and live each day to the fullest.
Golden Bell Senior Living offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, and respite care. Residents have personalized care plans, are treated like family, and are greeted by name in a warm, welcoming environment.
Amenities and activities include:
- Beautiful accommodations
- Landscaped grounds and gardens
- Community outings
- Recreation and social activities
- Chef-prepared meals
- Scheduled transportation
- Beauty and barber shop
- Housekeeping and maintenance services
Please contact us to learn more about our communities or set up a tour. We’d love to hear from you and are happy to help answer any questions you have about senior living. For more information about choosing senior living, download our complimentary Family Decision Toolkit.
