How to have A conversation with a loved one about an assisted living community?
This can be a very difficult conversation especially when you’re the caregiver. When you have decided it is time to move your loved one into an assisted living community, we want to help by giving you tips on how to make this process seamless.
Gather additional support from other family members.
When you gather around all of the people that your loved one cares about, it can help make this a more comfortable conversation, and less of a defensive topic. It is important to practice active listening and listen to everyone's thoughts, and make sure that nobody has any outstanding concerns. You are going to need to show confidence when discussing this topic, to make your loved one feel more at ease about the transition. You can also have a medical professional in the room, to provide a medical perspective and information.
Consider and create a conversation plan before the meeting.
This is crucial to ensure that you and other family members know all of the talking points, the ‘why’ behind your actions, and the plan. If you have a planned conversation outline, it will provide better clarity of what the next steps are for your loved one.
Choose the right setting for this conversation.
Timing can be everything, so your loved one must be in their most comfortable state when having this conversation. When having a heavy discussion like this, try to be on their schedule and minimize any other distractions. We recommend in the morning, when their most alert, over breakfast, and the most secure.
When establishing a core speaking point, focus on the benefits of an assisted living community.
This is arguably the most important step of this process. Your loved one needs to hear you say the positive sides and benefits of making this transition. They must know the wonderful opportunities coming their way. Keep this perspective when having a conversation with your loved one. They will be leaning on you to accept the amazing life they will still live in the community.
If you are reaching a point where you believe this conversation is coming, please reach out to us. Bluegrass Assisted Living is here to provide information and comfort throughout this process. We would love to meet, speak, and establish a plan that fits your family and loved ones the best.