Can You ‘Know’ if Your Aging Parent Truly Needs Assisted Living?
Can You ‘Know’ if Your Aging Parent Truly Needs Assisted Living?
You’re pretty sure that your aging mother would be better off at an assisted living community. But, how do you know? How do you truly ‘know’ if somebody would be better off in a different living environment than the home where they’ve been for the past two years or even decades?
It’s not an easy thing to determine.
There are several things people need to remember when an aging parent is struggling at home with their own basic care. No, you do not have to become their de facto primary caregiver, especially if that’s not something you wish to take on or don’t have the time to devote to it.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when you believe that assisted living would be the best option for an elderly parent, especially one who is now living alone.
First, remember it is ultimately their decision.
Unless you have direct power of attorney over every decision this parent can make, it is their choice whether they stay at home or move into an assisted living community. If you are adamant in your belief they would be better off at assisted living, then learn as much as you can about these services and the benefits it offers.
You need to be respectful of their decision, but when you are armed with valuable and accurate information, it becomes a bit easier to let him or her know this would be something to seriously consider.
Second, talk to them.
This may seem to go without having to say it, but some families discuss these issues amongst themselves before even bringing it up with their aging parent or grandparent. Talk to that senior first. Find out what they would prefer. Listen to what they have to say.
Many people talk, but they don’t often listen enough. There may be some wonderful insights you could gain by simply listening to this senior.
Third, talk about the benefits of assisted living.
Every facility will be different to some degree, so don’t assume that what one facility offers will be the same at another one. Discuss the benefits of a specific assisted living community and then, if the senior has shown any interest whatsoever, encourage them to go on a tour of that facility.
During a tour they will be able to see the facility, perhaps the entertainment facility, a sample of the rooms they might be able to live in, and they may even get to talk to some of the residents.
When you talk to this senior, listen to them, and respect their decision, you will ultimately know what’s in their heart.
For more information about assisted living in Shavano Park, TX, contact Pipestone Place Assisted Living or to take a tour, call today (210) 718-0211.
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