As your loved one ages, it is important to have an established plan in place for making sure that they continue to enjoy the best physical and emotional health possible. For this reason, it is best to begin discussions about your loved one’s long-term care preferences before they require full-time assistance with their daily routine. Since this is often a sensitive subject for senior adults, it is important to use these strategies to open up a dialogue about the benefits of nursing homes.
Choose the Right Time
Potentially difficult conversations should always be initiated when your loved one is in a receptive mood. Try to arrange to start your dialogue on a day when your loved one is relaxed. It also helps to make sure that they are not hungry or tired before you start to talk. When you are sure they are ready to hear what you have to say, then let them know that you want to discuss something important. Then, start with a few open-ended conversations to see how they feel about nursing home care. Your loved one may genuinely be interested in learning about how living in a senior community could enhance their daily routine.
Highlight the Benefits
It is normal for seniors to worry about losing their independence, yet you can help your loved one see how nursing homes help seniors preserve their abilities. For instance, having assistance and living in a safe environment helps your loved one avoid fall-related injuries and medication mishaps. It also helps give your loved one a sense of control over their future to be able to make these kinds of decisions now.
Arrange for a Visit
Once you have your loved one thinking about nursing homes, it is time to turn your dialogue into an action. Schedule a tour of your loved one’s preferred nursing home so that they can meet the staff and other residents of their future community. This allows your loved one to picture themselves living with the benefits of having support so that they can be better able to make an informed decision about their care.
For more ideas on how to talk to your loved one about their long-term living options, contact Franklin United Methodist Community today.
