What to Say to a Loved One Who Doesn’t Want to Move into Assisted Living
Many of us dread the day we have to face facts and acknowledge that it’s time for Mom and/or Dad to move into assisted living. Many people maintain outdated ideas of what assisted living is like, imagining the dreaded “old folks’ home,” sometimes referred to as “heaven’s waiting room.” Many people see the move to assisted living as the last step before death, which is why they resist it so strongly.
But you know better. Not only do you know they need assisted living, but you know how full of life a good assisted living community can be. Here are some things you can say to your loved one to convince them of what you already know:
“It’s safer.”
The number one concern for seniors who have an increasing amount of difficulty in moving around is that they might fall and be unable to get help if they’re injured. A personal safety alarm can help alleviate some of this fear, but what if they live alone, they fall, and they can’t set off their alarm? Or what if they forget to turn off the stove/oven while they’re cooking and there’s no one around to remind them to turn it off before it starts a fire? Assisted living can help prevent such catastrophes, while giving residents as much privacy as possible.
“Wouldn’t it be nice not to have to worry about taking care of this big house anymore?”
Taking care of a home is a lot of work and it gets increasingly difficult to find the energy for it all as we get older. Residents in assisted living don’t have to worry about shoveling snow, raking leaves, mowing their lawn, or any of the other hassles associated with living in their own home. They can continue cooking and cleaning for themselves as long as they’re able, but most of the responsibilities that come with property ownership fall on the shoulders of the assisted living community, freeing up the residents to rest and save their energy for other tasks.
At the same time, if residents have trouble cooking and/or cleaning, assisted living can also provide help in that area and do so in a way that’s comfortable and easy for the resident.
“You won’t lose your privacy.”
Privacy is also a big concern for those who are used to living in their own home, but most assisted living communities maintain an apartment-building style and provide residents with only the care they need. If residents want help with day-to-day tasks, while maintaining as much of their privacy and independence as possible, assisted living is ideal for providing all those needs at a price your loved one can afford.
Take Them on a Tour
If all else fails, take them on a tour. Let them see the units for themselves and have staff explain exactly what they can expect if they were to move in. It’s the best way to dispel the outdated fears they might have about assisted living.
Here at Stillwater Senior Living, we treat our residents like family. Our apartments include studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom suites. They are designed with security features, maximum accessibility, and include walk-out patois with a full range of amenities for the entire family.
CONTACT US today for more information and a tour of our beautiful state-of-the-art community.