How to Start a Heart-to-Heart Conversation About Assisted Living
Prairie Gate
Sep 12, 2022
Nebraska - Eastern Region
Are you concerned about your older adult parent in their current home environment? Their house may have served them well for years but now limits them. Exploring assisted living as an option may improve their quality of life and support their needs.
How do you start the heart-to-heart about living options and support? “Find out what’s going on in their life and listen carefully,” says Amy Muller, Housing Advisor at Prairie Gate, a Presbyterian Homes & Services community. “It’s crucial to keep your parent in the ‘driver’s seat’ so that they are making the decisions about their life.”
Ask your parent what it takes to maintain their house. Find out how much space in the house they use, how well they navigate its interior or go in and out freely and safely.
Educate yourself and expand your parent’s understanding of assisted living so that assumptions about “the old folks’ home” don’t become obstacles. Far from being a nursing home, assisted living offers an apartment setting complemented by supportive services including housekeeping, meals and personal care.
Your parent may fear losing their independence if they leave their home. “Assisted living residents make their own decisions and continue to lead their life the way they wish,” Amy assures. “Your parent will organize their own day with the freedom to come and go as they please.” she says.
Showing is better than telling. Touring an assisted living community give you and your parent a firsthand look. “The most successful moves are made by seniors, with the support of their grown children, who have planned, researched and seen the choices available and know what they want,” said Amy.
Change is hard, so be prepared to provide emotional support to your parent and be patient. The goal is to help your parents adapt to their changing situation as they age and support the best possible quality of life in the best living environment for them today and for the future.
Editor’s Note This article was submitted by Amy Muller, Housing Advisor for Prairie Gate. Contact Amy 712-352-6604 or amuller@preshomes.org.
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