Despite the plans you or your loved one may have made for your retirement, circumstances may change along the way. It may be that your loved one has been aging in place peacefully for a few years, however, an increasing health or mobility need means that they can no longer accomplish certain tasks on their own.
When that’s the case, it’s time to move into assisted living in Chipley, TX!
When Aging in Place Becomes Dangerous
There are many reasons aging in place may no longer work out, although it was a good arrangement previously. For instance, your loved one may no longer be able to attend to housekeeping and meal preparation in the same capacity as before. Getting around the house can be dangerous for them, especially if there are stairs or slippery floors to navigate.
Consequently, this can mean that the socialization opportunities open to older adults become limited. Besides being unable to get out without assistance, their social circle may diminish if many of their friends have made the move to retirement communities or are unable to get out themselves. At this point, you may want to encourage your loved one to make the transition to assisted living in their own best interests.
Encouraging Your Loved One to Make the Move
If your elderly parents seem to be reluctant to make the move to assisted living, below are some ways you can try encouraging them:
Get A Referral
Have any of your parents’ friends or neighbors already made the move to a retirement community? If so, you may want to consider reaching out to them to get an unbiased review. Your loved one may just be more willing to make the move if they know there will be a familiar face waiting for them there!
Schedule Tours
Of course, this decision will be something that you need to make together with your loved one. After all, they are the one it most directly concerns. Schedule a few tours of various assisted living communities and go along with your loved one. While you are there, do not push the point. Instead, allow your loved one to enjoy the activities on offer and tour the amenities.
One way you can subtly encourage your parent is by asking questions on the issues you know they are concerned about. For instance, you may check if they are allowed to have visitors and decorate their apartment homes to their own liking.
Have a Family Discussion
The worst thing you can do is make a decision for your loved one without considering their input. To this purpose, you may wish to hold a family discussion with your siblings, family friends, neighbors and even your family doctor. Give everyone a chance to voice their concerns and opinions on the current situation. You may also wish to share some resources on assisted living. A third party may be better positioned to convince your parent as they are coming in with a more objective view!