Family Matters: How to Understand and Connect with Your Aging Parents

Author

Terracina Grand

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Terracina Grand

Posted on

Jul 23, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

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As our loved ones grow older and experience life’s changes, it’s important to take into account their perspectives and communicate freely with them on topics like health, housing, or finances. Remember, even if you are comfortable discussing these topics and feel like you understand your loved one, you have not walked in their shoes so listening to their perspective is key.

MAKE IMPORTANT DECISIONS

Making decisions that elicit change can be intimidating, but it is important to have these conversations and maintain open communication throughout the entire process. “You have to give them information and help guide them,” said Tina, regional director of life enrichment with The Goodman Group. “Let them participate in the decision-making process.” 

One of the most important decisions that older adults face is determining the right time to leave their home and move into a senior living community. Wendy W., daughter of a resident at Terracina Grand in Naples, FL, recommends having conversations early when your parents are still able to decide what type of community would be a perfect fit for them. “Let it be their decision,” said Wendy. “Get them thinking about it while they’re still able to make those choices.”

Discussing the cost of living arrangements is important, too. Keep your options and mind open when researching different communities. 

TIPS FOR CONNECTING

Your family is a team that should be working together with everyone’s best interests in mind, especially when one or more of the members is going through a natural but difficult change. While every family is unique, here are some tips that may help strengthen your family bonds:

  • Have patience and be empathetic to how your loved one may be feeling.
  • Be an active listener so that you truly hear them, and also let them know they have been heard. Stress that no conversation is off-limits.
  • Build trust by advocating for them.
  • Be consistent–call or check in regularly to let them know they have a strong support system
  • FORM BETTER RELATIONSHIPS
  • Open communication is the catalyst for better relationships. While you may only know Mom and Dad as parents, take the time to get to know them outside of that role. Initiate discussions about their past, present, and future.

    Clare S., daughter of another resident at Terracina Grand, feels that better conversations with her mom have created a happier relationship. “There is more friendship now. We had previously lost that. There was nothing to look forward to or laugh about,” said Clare. “Now there is more happiness, more joyful times. She is more like the mom that I grew up with.”

    Life is a journey filled with significant transitional moments. From the birth of a child to retirement, these changes can be overwhelming if you don't know what to expect. One of these major moments is moving a loved one to a senior living community. This can be a time filled with mixed emotions, but many find that senior living communities offer numerous opportunities for happiness and joy. Whatever the life event, keep these tips in mind when approaching conversations with your aging parents.

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Terracina Grand

Assisted Living 6825 Davis Blvd, Naples, Florida, 34104

Terracina Senior Living: A Vibrant Senior Living CommunityI like to know my options. Terracina Senior Living is a vibrant senior living campus that offers a healthy aging lifestyle, intergenerational programming, and exceptional services and amenities designed to meet the diverse needs of our residents.What We OfferIndependent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite Care, Transitional & Skilled Nursing CareCampus Amenities & FeaturesChef-prepared mealsLife Enrichment programsHousekeeping and linen servicesScheduled transportationPet-friendly accommodationsComplimentary Wi-Fi in common areasBasic cable TVMonth-to-month rentalNo buy-in feeGiGi Assistant appIndependent LivingAt Terracina Senior Living, we believe life can get better with age. Our programs help you live your passions, fulfill your potential, and keep precious memories alive while making cherished new ones. Enjoy a wonderful life at every stage and experience how rich life can be.Independent Living Includes:Three chef-inspired meals per dayWeekly housekeeping, linen, and towel servicesLife Enrichment programsScheduled transportationAll utilities, including local telephone serviceBasic cable TVComplimentary Wi-Fi in common areas24-hour on-site staffingAvailable at: TERRACINA GRANDAssisted LivingTerracina Grand excels at helping residents transition from independent life to a more supportive environment. Engage in daily social activities and improve your quality of life as you age. Comprehensive personal care services are available around the clock.Assisted Living Includes:Three chef-inspired meals per dayWeekly housekeeping, linen, and towel servicesLife Enrichment programsScheduled transportationAll utilities, including local telephone serviceBasic cable TVComplimentary Wi-Fi in common areas24-hour on-site staffingPersonal assistance with activities of daily living (charged at an additional monthly rate)Available at: TERRACINA GRANDMemory CareWhen experiencing memory loss, our Pearls of Life memory care provides a dignified and well-rounded life for residents. Utilizing the Montessori Inspired Lifestyle, our caregivers focus on individual strengths and engage residents in meaningful activities.Memory Care Includes:All-inclusive memory careMontessori Inspired Lifestyle Approach for Dementia CareThree chef-prepared meals per dayAll utilitiesBasic cable TVWeekly housekeeping, linen, and towel service24-hour on-site staffingPersonal assistance with activities of daily living (charged at an additional monthly rate)Available at: TERRACINA GRANDVILLA AT TERRACINA GRANDRespite CareTerracina Senior Livings respite care is the perfect solution for providing your loved one with individualized care while you take a break.Respite Care Includes:Fully furnished apartmentHousekeeping, linen, towel, and laundry servicesThree chef-inspired meals per day24-hour on-site staffing24-hour emergency call systemEmergency call pendantBasic cable TVComplimentary Wi-Fi in common areasPersonal assistance with activities of daily living (charged at an additional monthly rate)Available at: TERRACINA GRANDVILLA AT TERRACINA GRANDTransitional & Skilled Nursing CareAt Gardens at Terracina Health & Rehabilitation, our rehabilitation and wellness services help you return home as soon as possible. Each individual receives a customized treatment plan to promote improvement in physical strength, health, and endurance.Transitional & Skilled Nursing Care Includes:Skilled nursing carePrivate roomPersonalized service offeringsThree chef-inspired meals per dayTherapeutic dietsSocial servicesHousekeeping, laundry, and linen servicesAll utilities, including telephoneBasic cable TV24-hour on-site staffingLife Enrichment programsAvailable at: GARDENS AT TERRACINA HEALTH & REHABILITATIONExperience Award-Winning CareWhy Live Here: Schedule a Tour, See Virtual Tour, Connect With UsTerracina Senior Living offers a warm and welcoming community with a variety of living options and services to suit your needs. Discover the rich, fulfilling life you can lead at Terracina Senior Living.