For many, considering a move to a senior living community is a difficult time. It often comes at the same time as other life changes such as retirement, a health issue, or even the death of a loved one. Because of these complications, considering a move to a senior living community can make a challenging period, even more emotional.
If you’re feeling as though it may be time for your loved one to consider a move to a senior living community in Teaneck, New Jersey, it’s important to give some thought and planning to your approach to the conversation. Here, we’ll provide some guidance and tips on talking to your loved one about moving to a senior living community.
Understanding the Impact of a Move
A move to a senior living community has a tremendous impact on both the older adult and their loved ones. It can mean moving out of a home filled with memories, a change in independence, and even an acknowledgment of one’s mortality. It’s easy to see why this is no easy conversation!
For some, the heaviness and significance can cloud the older adult’s ability to recognize that there may be a safety or health risk to continuing to live independently. It’s normal for this to create some tension when having this talk. Bringing mindfulness and awareness of the impact of this move is key to starting the conversation.
Tips for Talking to your Loved One
If now feels like the right time to broach the topic of a move to a Teaneck, NJ senior living community, it’s important to plan your conversation. Below are six tips to consider when talking to your loved one about a move.
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Choose the Right Time
Timing can be everything. If possible, start the conversation around senior living early on to give your loved one time to process and consider the conversation. Pick a time to talk where your loved one will be the most open to listen, and consider what environment will feel the most productive to have a conversation. For some, talking at home will feel the most comfortable, while others might benefit from talking at a trusted primary care physician’s office.
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Listen and Keep an Open Mind
While it’s normal to come into the conversation ready to talk, it’s important to also be ready to listen. Making space for your loved one to respond and give their concerns is key. You may learn about concerns or feelings that you didn’t realize your loved one had. While senior living may feel like the obvious choice to you, it may take time for your loved one to overcome their own fears. Spending time listening can save you time and help you be more prepared in the future.
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Start the Process
For many, the idea of moving is daunting and overwhelming. If there’s something you can do to help start the process such as touring a community, like Arbor Terrace Teaneck, and exploring local downsizing services can take some of the pressure off of your loved one to approach the change alone. You might also connect with the Teaneck Council on Aging to learn of residents who have moved and might be willing to share their experience.
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Focus on the Benefits, but Acknowledge Concerns
When talking to your loved one, it’s definitely important to focus on the benefits of senior living - socialization, simplification, and overall wellness to name a few. Focus on the benefits that are most likely to appeal to your loved one. However, it’s also important to acknowledge any concerns that your loved one may have, such as the time and effort it takes to move, and concerns about leaving a long time home.
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Build a Support System
Considering all the changes your loved one is experiencing, it’s important to ensure that they have a strong support system both now and after their move. A common concern of older adults is that moving to a senior living community might reduce their involvement and connection with their families. If this is true for your loved one, consider creating a schedule of visits and phone calls to be sure they feel supported even after a move.
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Have Patience
One conversation may not be the deciding factor for your loved one. It’s important to have patience and make time to process, consider, and research before making a decision. You may need to take some time to reflect back on your loved one’s concerns and consider if there are ways to alleviate some of the stress.
Considering these tips when talking to your loved one will help you to have a productive and open dialogue about your loved one’s care future. The sooner you can start a conversation about senior living, the more time your loved one will have to consider their care options.
For support in having a conversation with your loved one, stop in to talk to one of a trusted senior living advisor at Arbor Terrace Teaneck, or one of the friendly residents who live in our community. 