Sometimes as a family caregiver you have to have difficult conversations with your elderly family member. That’s especially difficult when you’re considering making changes to plans that she’s been making for a while. Making the call to move your elderly family member to a supportive living facility is something that you’ll want to approach carefully.
Gather Information Before You Start the Talk
Any time that you are considering changes for your senior, having the information to help you make those changes is preferable. Aging in place is probably your senior’s primary goal, and it’s something that is possible to an extent. But at some point, your senior may need more help and more tools in order to maintain the quality of life that she wants to have, and a senior living community can offer those things and more.
Make Sure Your Senior Has a Say in What Is Going On
The last thing that you want in this situation is for your elderly family member to feel as if you’re locking her out of the decision-making process. It’s vital that you do all that you can to keep her involved as you research the right retirement community for her. Ask your senior how she feels and what she wants so that you’re able to meet her needs.
Consider the Timing
Timing can make a huge difference with a conversation this big. If your elderly family member isn’t feeling well already, then having a big conversation about something that is a little scary can make her react a little more strongly to your suggestions. Being a little more careful with your timing can make a big difference.
Don’t Rush the Decision to Make a Move
This is a big decision, even if your senior acknowledges that she does need some help and a change in residence. Pushing too hard or too fast for your senior to move to a senior living community may make her more resistant to the idea. Take your time and help her to find the right situation for her needs, and that will help her and your entire family to adapt to the new situation more easily.
It’s never easy to make all of the different choices involved in changing your elderly family member’s living situation. Senior supportive living can offer her the exact support that she needs, adapting and adjusting for her as she needs additional support.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering a move to Supportive Living in Edwardsville, IL or surrounding areas please contact the caring staff at Knollwood Retirement Community today. 618-394-0569
Offering seniors age 65 and older a wealth of amenities to retain as much independence as they are able, with support, in a home-like environment in our supportive living community.
