There will come a time when most of us will have to have a very difficult conversation with our parents about their long term care plans. It is a fact of life that, many times, our parents will end up with a need for a level of care that is above that which we can provide them with. When this time arrives, you want both you and your parents to be prepared to make the smoothest possible transition. This smooth transition all begins with talking to your parents about moving to a senior care facility.
How to Talk to Your Parents About Moving to a Senior Care Facility
To set yourself up for a positive and productive conversation, be prepared for this important talk about moving your parents to a senior care facility. Think about what really concerns yourself about your parents’ living situation. Are there potential dangers in their house? Is limited mobility making it difficult for them to safely navigate everyday life? Are they having difficulty keeping track of medication?
Additionally, look into senior care options. Learning more about senior care facility options will help give you a better idea of where your parents may be eventually moving to. When considering facility options, really try and be objective about the needs of your parents and what they may be struggling with. This can be difficult as none of us want to think about our parents having a tough time, but it is necessary in order to really get an honest understanding of what type of facility they should be moved to.
When you talk to your parents, make every effort to do so in person. This type of conversation is so important and will not translate as well over the phone. Additionally, avoid sympathy and focus on empathy. No one wants someone to feel sorry for them. Avoid pity and try to really understand why your parents may struggle to come to terms with the fact that they may need to move to a senior care facility sooner rather than later.
Having the conversation sooner rather than later is best for many reasons. This is not a conversation that should be rushed. Having the conversation earlier rather than later will prevent having to make a quick decision. It will allow you to talk about this important decision more than once. It will also allow you to really discuss the details with your parents and help them feel like they are taking part in the decision making process.
Elder Law Attorney
We here at Monk Law are dedicated to the issues involved with elder law. This includes helping you evaluate long term care options for your aging loved ones. This level of care can be necessary, but it can also be quite expensive. We are also equipped to provide you with counsel as to your options on covering long term care expenses. Contact Monk Law today.