What to Do if Your Elderly Parent is Opposed to a Senior Living Environment

It can be difficult to persuade an elderly relative that they require care, but there are ways to make the decision and transition easier. Aging frequently entails increasing discomfort, decreased movement, and increased difficulties in taking control of one's own life. It makes sense that so many elderly people are determined to maintain their independence; however, roughly two-thirds of senior citizens require assistance with at least one daily chore. 

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Here are some suggestions on what to do if an elderly parent declines caregiving and assisted living services.

Get Help

Start by talking to your relatives or siblings. Make sure you are on the same page by discussing possibilities beforehand. By doing this, conflict and stress will be reduced. A third party may occasionally be able to defuse a volatile situation. Think about having a conversation with a reputable doctor, spiritual advisor such as a pastor, or counsellor that your loved one trusts. Encourage the physician to emphasize the risks associated with continuing to live alone. Involving others strengthens the message but proceed with caution. Make sure not to make your loved one feel pressured or bullied but do express care and concern.

If your elderly parent is in danger, you may need to obtain legal counsel from an elder care attorney. They will be able to guide you through your options, offer guidance on applying for guardianship, or even make a helpful referral to a geriatric social worker.

Change the Approach

If your current strategy is failing, it's time to switch up your approach. Avoid simply giving the same speech repeatedly. Instead, seize teaching opportunities; for example, perhaps cleaning has become too much, or they feel lonely. Discuss how assisted living might alleviate these issues. Remind them of the advantages provided by senior facilities, e.g., vibrant social environments, freedom, peace of mind, and more time to enjoy life. Go on some "active" excursions. 

Perhaps your elderly parent knows some friends in an assisted living environment. At assisted senior living in Meridian, ID, family and friends are always welcome. Use this opportunity to let your parent observe individuals flourishing. Contact a facility near you to make plans for them to take part in enjoyable classes or activities or attend lunch in the dining hall. 

Sometimes, you may need to take a step or two back. Your elderly parent may be feeling that they no longer have control over their lives when they are pressured into assisted living when they don't want it. Allow them time to reflect, assess their circumstances, and even come to their own independent decision that they require supported living.

Talk About It

Listen and empathize. Make it clear to your loved one that you care about their reasons for opposing assisted living. Give them the reins and find out how they plan to resolve the situation. Give them options after asking about their priorities. Express your emotions. Tell them how it can be hurting you in a way that they can understand without placing blame on them. Don't call them bothersome or a burden. Don't accuse them of being egocentric.

Gently reassuring them will allay their worries regarding aging and function loss. They require understanding and affirmation at this point. The best way to approach your elderly parent who is opposed to senior living environments is with care, compassion, understanding, patience, and love.