There often comes a time for adult children with senior parents when they need a helping hand to provide their loved one with the care they need. Are you wondering how to talk to your parents about assisted living? Though it may feel like a big step, the conversation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are many steps you can take and research you can do to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Keep reading to discover how to help your parent make a successful move to assisted living, and learn how San Marino Retirement Community in Westminster, CO, can help.
Start Early
When it comes to talking about and moving to a senior living community, earlier is better. Don’t wait for a health emergency or large life event to occur before you start planning. It’s best to give you and your parent or loved one time to explore options, visit communities, and move at your own pace. No one likes to be rushed, which is why it’s important to start your exploration early.
It is also very popular for seniors to move into a retirement community as an independent living resident, before potentially transitioning to assisted living or memory care down the line. You don’t have to need physical support to move to a senior living community. Many older adults move earlier in life to enjoy the many amazing benefits and amenities that their community has to offer, building friendships and a community that they can continue to enjoy no matter their support style.
Make it a Conversation
By including your loved one in the decision-making process, you help them maintain their independence and sense of autonomy. Acknowledge any concerns they may have and work together to find solutions, approaching the move as a collaborative effort. Choose a relaxed, familiar place to start the discussion, somewhere where you will have privacy and neither of you will feel rushed. Keep emotions calm, and don’t be afraid to pause and revisit the discussion at a later time.
Highlight Their Preferences
Ask your loved one what is important for them to have or experience in a community. A fitness center? Art classes? Perhaps faith-based activities, like church services or discussion groups? Visit communities together to get a preview of life at various locations, and take your loved one’s feedback into account wherever possible. This will both help you choose the right community and help them to look forward to the move.
San Marino Retirement Community even offers a “pampered stay” for prospective residents. Your loved one can experience life at the community for a few days, including our delicious dining and wide variety of activities, and picture themselves at home.
Focus on the Benefits
Orient the conversation around what your parents would like to do in their day-to-day life, and focus on the benefits and new opportunities that senior living communities offer. Many seniors move to retirement communities for a lifestyle upgrade, maintenance-free living, or the amazing social opportunities they offer. Attend community events open to non-residents, and ask about the clubs, amenities, and services offered when touring communities.
Be Ready to Answer Questions
Today’s modern senior living communities offer amazing opportunities to upgrade your or your loved one’s lifestyle and day-to-day enjoyment. When people hear about continuing care retirement communities, they often think of nursing homes. The truth is that today’s communities are very different from nursing homes, and are an amazing resource for high-class perks and professional-level benefits.
From delicious dining options and personal fitness instructors to housekeeping services and personalized support options, senior living communities like San Marino help your loved one reclaim their independence.
Your loved one may also ask about the financial aspects of assisted living. As we age, the number and variety of support services we need commonly increases. You also have to account for life’s general bills, like groceries, utilities, and internet. At a senior living community like San Marino Retirement Community, you benefit from flexible à la carte care and easy budgeting — all with straightforward monthly pricing and all-in-one payments.
For a successful conversation, it’s important to recognize any concerns, stigmas, or biases your loved one may bring to the table. Do research beforehand, throughout, and after the discussion to answer their questions and ease any worries.
Start the Next Chapter with San Marino
Make the move to assisted living stress-free and easy with our team at San Marino Retirement Community. An active and welcoming senior living community in Westminster, CO, our friendly staff are here to support you and your loved one as you start this exciting new chapter.
Contact us to schedule a tour, attend a community event, or book a trial stay. We look forward to showing you around!