A “no maintenance” lifestyle, opportunities for socializing with friends, a holistic approach to wellness—making the move to senior living can be life-changing for many seniors. But if your parents are hesitant to consider a move, how can you communicate the positive benefits of senior living communities with patience, respect, and love?
At Provision Living, we’ve supported many families through this sensitive transition, and we’re here to help your process go smoothly, too. Below, we’ve put together some thoughtful guidance to help you start the senior living conversation with your parents, introduce your concerns with tact, and reach a solution in a way that makes them feel respected, valued, and heard. Now, let’s walk through some ways you can illuminate the benefits of senior living!
1. Start the conversation early
It can sometimes take time for older adults to get over their initial fears about senior living, like losing their independence, leaving a familiar environment, or adjusting their routine. That’s why it’s so important to begin this conversation early, before a medical crisis forces a last-minute decision.
2. Discuss the topic with tact
Before you begin the conversation, take some time to understand their unique situation and imagine it from their perspective. Ask gentle, open-ended questions: What do they wish they had more time and energy for? What would make their daily lives easier and more enjoyable? Low-stakes questions like these can encourage your parents to participate in the discussion without feeling criticized or controlled.
3. Take an interest in their situation
Observing and understanding your parent’s day-to-day challenges at home can help you identify where more support might be needed, while also demonstrating that you’re truly trying to understand their experience. By demonstrating empathy, listening with judgment, and acknowledging their feelings, you can build trust and reinforce your good intentions.
4. Offer a reality check
While some people still equate assisted living to nursing homes, the two are very different. Let your parents know that today’s senior living communities are not clinical and unwelcoming environments—they’re vibrant, engaging communities full of opportunities for connection and growth.
5. Contact a professional
If your parents aren’t receptive to hearing the message from you, it may be beneficial to involve a senior living professional. At Provision, our community advisors are experienced in helping families navigate these sorts of conversations, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help!
6. Highlight the benefits of a move
Once your parents are open to the idea, you can begin sharing some of the specific emotional and practical benefits of senior living communities. At Provision, these benefits include:
- On-site support: Provision communities offer 24/7 professional care and a continuum of care if residents’ needs change.
- Built-in community: We nurture a close-knit community full of opportunities for socializing with friends.
- “No maintenance” living: Say goodbye to yard work, home repairs, and household chores. At Provision, it’s all included!
- Lots to do: Residents can stay active and engaged with a full calendar of activities, community events, and holistic wellness programming.
- Safe environment: With emergency response systems and concierge services, residents here enjoy both independence and peace of mind.
7. Take an in-person tour
Touring a senior living community with your parents is a great way to take the anxiety out of the decision and replace it with curiosity! Start by evaluating the community with them, then visit and observe! As you check out the apartments and amenities, be sure to browse the community calendar, eat a meal in the dining room, and chat with current residents, their families, and team. The goal is to really help your parent(s) imagine what life would look like there!
How Provision can help
Once your loved ones are open to the idea of senior living, the next question is often: Can we afford it? At Provision Living, our helpful team is here to help you understand all the financial options available to you. When you’re ready to experience our community in-person, schedule a tour!
