Aging can be difficult. As we grow older, we may not be as capable of managing our lives, experience more aches and pains, and have limited mobility. This is why retirement communities can be a great option for older adults to live their retirement to the fullest with the help of committed team members who can assist them with their needs. But what if your aging parent refuses to do what’s best for them by insisting on aging in place? Here are five strategies you can use to convince your parent into an assisted living community in Fort Myers, FL.
Mix up Your Approach
If what you are doing has not been working, it is perhaps time to change your approach. If you have been expressing your fear and frustrations in hopes that it will resonate with your parent, perhaps try expressing love and concern instead. Your parent might still feel in control and that your worries are unfounded so try approaching it from a positive angle. Highlight the benefits of assisted living, like the amenities and activities they can take advantage of and the responsibilities they would be free of like maintaining a home.
Give Them Time
When even a gentle approach does not work, consider dropping the subject for a while. When pushed into doing something they do not want, it’s easy for anyone to feel like they no longer have control of their lives and push back even more. Give your loved one a couple of weeks to think about it and evaluate the situation and you might be surprised to find out that they are open to the idea!
Show How You Feel
If you have a good relationship with your aging parents, let them know how you feel. They care about you and your feelings. Rather than making it about them, talk to them about how their move would be beneficial for you. Perhaps you would love to care for them but are not able to juggle other commitments like work and children alongside. Let them know that you love them and want to care for them but are unable to do all of it together. Let them know that you want to find a way to help both you and them. However, be wary of your words and ensure that they are not misconstrued to make your parent feel like a burden.
Get Help from Others
Sometimes the person delivering the message matters. By involving others, you also make the message more compelling. If you feel like you are not getting through to your parents, you can try enlisting the help of some other trusted members of their life like their priest or pastor, physician, or another family member. Sources of authority such as a pastor or a doctor are more likely to sway your loved one’s decision.
Talking about senior living does not have to be difficult or painful. We hope these tips help the discussion and that both you and your aging parent come to an agreement about moving into assisted living.
