No matter your age, embracing change is hard. We don’t want to leave our comfort zones and try something new. Maybe it’s time for your aging parent to move out of their home into assisted living – and they simply just tell you “no.” No matter how you approach the subject, they are likely to have objections about moving. As you help them transition to a new stage of life, be prepared with answer to their questions and concerns. Common Objections Here are some of the most common objections aging parents may have about moving to assisted living. “I’ll miss my friends.” Often, parents aren’t able to keep in touch with their friends due to illness or lack of transportation. At assisted living communities, residents are encouraged to socialize with each other and create new friendships. There are opportunities to socialize during activities, small groups like book club, writing class or knitting, or chatting during meals. Also, they’re allowed to have friends visit whenever they’d like. “I can’t stand to leave my house.” Moving away from a familiar environment can seem daunting to your aging loved one. Remind them that they’ll be able to bring some of their own special belongings with them. They can create a sense of “home” in their new apartment. They also won’t have to worry about mowing the lawn, shoveling the snow or deal with plumbing issues. “I can’t afford it.” Many aging parents don’t want to spend the money to move to assisted living, or think they can’t afford it. Talk with them about the different financing options and how they’ll be able to pay for it. Have resources ready for the both of you to review together. “My family won’t visit.” Assisted living communities make it easy for family members to visit. Not only can they visit in the resident’s personal apartment, they can participate in programs and dine in the main dining room. Visitors can also join their loved one in many of the scheduled programs. The resident can leave with family to attend reunions and family get-togethers or these events can be scheduled at the community in a private community or dining areas. “I won’t know what to do.” Change is difficult for anyone, but it’s especially difficult for seniors who’ve lived in the same place for years. Staff members at assisted living communities are specially trained to reach out to residents, make them feel at home, and introduce them to new programs and friends. Keeping in mind these questions and answers will help you prepare for having “the talk” with your parent about moving to assisted living. It’s best to have the talk early on so you aren’t life with making a quick decision due to a sudden illness or disease.
Common Objections Parents Have About Assisted Living
