For seniors, starting the conversation about retirement living can be tough; it can often feel like a threat to their independence or a time in which they’re admitting they may not be able to care for themselves at all. In reality, retirement living can help foster a flourishing social life, take some of the struggles out of day-to-day tasks, and ensure your loved one’s health and safety.
Bringing up the topic might feel impossible, but at some point, it’s a conversation that has to happen. It’s never good if seniors feel bombarded or surprised by this conversation or think that they don’t have a say in the matter, which is why it’s so important to discuss retirement living with empathy and positivity.
The Conversation Doesn’t Have to be Hard
If you feel unsure about how to discuss the idea of retirement living with the seniors in your life, Delmanor is here to help. We are experts in this area and have seen time and time again what seems to work during this process and what creates obstacles. Here are our top 5 recommendations to make the conversation go as smoothly as possible:
#1 Talk about it early
It’s best to start this conversation before the need to move into a retirement community is imminent. If you are talking about it while your parent or loved one still feels a strong sense of independence and has time to consider it, they are much more likely to warm up to the idea over time and you’ll avoid coming off as pushing them one way or another. Don’t wait until an injury or medical condition makes retirement a necessity; talk to your loved one’s while there is still a choice in front of them.
#2 Ensure the seniors know they have a voice in the matter
The last thing you want your loved one to feel is betrayed in the situation. At the end of the day, it’s their decision whether or not to move into a retirement community, so remind them of that. By working as a team to find the best situation for them, you’ll have much better outcomes than trying to push them to do it.
#3 Have empathy
Keep in mind how difficult this time may be for your loved one. This is a massive change, and it often acknowledges the stage of life that they are entering, and that can be heavy. You don’t need to feel sorry for them, but you do need to be patient and understanding during the process.
#4 Educate yourself first
Walking into a conversation this important without having done your research is dangerous. By looking at different facilities in the area or even calling to talk to the staff, you can get a better idea of what life is like there and help ensure your loved one is looking at the move through the right lens.
#5 Visit a retirement living facility
Don’t be afraid to take your loved one into a retirement living community or two that are in your area. This can often debunk stereotypes or calm fears that they may have about living in a retirement community.
Delmanor is Here to Help
As mentioned, we’re experts in this area. We have staff who have seen new residents struggle with the transition and residents who absolutely love it immediately. Either way, they are familiar with the life changes coming your way and can help you and your family navigate them so everyone feels seen, heard, and loved.
Retirement Living at Delmanor
Delmanor Retirement Living communities are a great fit for individuals looking for a living space that prioritizes the health and happiness of their residents. At Delmanor, residents enjoy hotel-style amenities and services for peak comfort and wellness.
Delmanor Glen Abbey’s LivingWell program provides residents with a variety of opportunities designed to stimulate their minds and enrich their spirits as part of a happy and healthy retirement living experience.
