As we grow older, it is normal to have problems doing things we used to be able to easily do. Your loved ones were able to clean themselves up, feed themselves, go to the doctor by themselves and walk. However, their ability to do all these has been limited and it can be hard for them to accept that they need help with the mundane daily tasks. They may not want to ask for help due to pride. They may insist that they are healthy enough to do them on their own. However, as caregivers, we know that they cannot fully manage these on their own and we need to convince them to opt for assisted living instead. It takes time and effort to convince them without straining the relationship. Here are some ways to convince your parent to choose assisted living!
Speak to Your Family
Before choosing to bring your parent to assisted living, talk to your siblings or loved ones about the different options available that can help your parent. Discussing why you think assisted living is better for your loved ones can help your family understand where you are coming from. Share ideas and listen to each other so as to minimize tension and disagreements. Caring for your loved ones can either bring your family closer or further away depending on how you react to situations. If your family is on a different page and believes that there are better options available, compromise and decide by trying it out and seeing how it goes. There is never a one-way solution in caregiving as it depends on the individual and their specific needs.
Do Not Force
When we strongly feel that an option is the best way to go about doing things, we often force people to comply without even realizing it. If we put that kind of pressure on our parents, they will be less receptive and even agitated as they could think that you are controlling their life decisions. When you force them, you are inevitably stripping away their power to decide on their own which could be why they were so resistant to assisted living in the first place. This conversation may need to occur throughout the weeks or months. This is to ensure that we give them the space they need to decide and to consider other options for themselves.
Listen and Empathise
Remember to put yourself in their shoes when talking and listen to them. Oftentimes, we only can see our own perspective and be clouded in our own judgment. However, if you make decisions without considering their feelings, they will be resistant to all kinds of care and it can potentially lead to deteriorating conditions. Instead, ask them how they feel about assisted living and why they feel that way. Listen to their response and empathize with them. When you listen with compassion it builds trust and your parents will not see it as an agenda that you are trying to push.
Explain the Benefits
Sometimes, they do not even know what assisted living is. New and foreign things can scare them. It is important to sit with them and share about the different benefits of assisted living and how it improves their standard of living. Often, they may have certain misconceptions about assisted living due to what they hear. However, assure them that the kind of amenities and facilities that they offer, will encourage independence and give them ease of mind. They will have more time to simply enjoy life!
