Talking to your parents and loved ones about moving into memory care communities in Humble, TX can be a difficult and stressful discussion to bring up, which is why we often call it a “courageous conversation”.
Fear, sadness, loss, changes in power dynamics, feelings of helplessness, and the annoyance that comes with dealing with the day-to-day complexities of living with Alzheimer’s and other kinds of dementia are just a few of the many emotions it evokes.
The following are some of our recommendations for how to bring up the subject and how to maintain an attentive, open-minded listening posture during the talk.
Start Early
Most patients with Alzheimer’s or dementia have already experienced a significant change in their way of life by the time they get a diagnosis. The disease will likely get progressively worse. Therefore, we strongly advise starting the dialogue regarding memory care alternatives as soon as possible. It will be preferable if he or she feels more empowered and autonomous, even if you take them on tours to various memory care communities.
Think of it as Multiple Conversations Instead of Only One
You should see this as a series of talks rather than a single session in which all the decisions must be made unless your loved one immediately agrees (it does occur, but this is less typical).
By doing this, more room is made for everyone to think through and accept the issue as it is. Another justification for having your first talk right away, as opposed to adopting the ostrich in the sand strategy, is that everybody is more emotionally charged due to a condensed schedule and a more pressing need for now-based answers.
Use Leading Questions Instead of Pushing the Idea onto Them
Have you realized how tough it can be when you tell your parents or loved ones directly that it is time to move into memory care communities? You may often be met with disagreement and denial.
A good tip is to ask leading questions instead of forcing the idea onto them. It will help give them the feeling of independence and being able to make a decision for themselves, which more often than not leads to the conclusion you desire.
For instance, try asking “What plans do you have in mind if something happens to your children?”, “Do you have any directions you’re headed such as to move in with a relative?”, or “What retirement plans make you feel the safest and most cared for?”. These inquiries are leading questions to the address elephant in the room that you intend to tackle anyhow. Additionally, if the conversation proceeds organically rather than suddenly, it may result in more open participation.
Be Clear About the Plan and Options
It’s crucial for you to understand your alternatives as the conversation’s facilitator so you can maintain your composure and composure throughout. It will be more perplexing for you and your loved one if you are unclear or confused, and have a ton of options available but have no actual idea which alternative is better.
Find out as much as you can about your parent’s financial situation and available choices, including whether or not they have long-term care insurance, if they qualify for veterans benefits, and the expected earnings from selling a property or a portion of their estate.
