Talking to parents about an assisted living facility

Adult children know that one of the hardest discussions to have with aging seniors comes when it's time for them to move from their old home to an assisted living facility that can help care for them. This was the experience of Kathy Peel, who wanted to talk about the possibility with her parents, who are both in their 80s, according to The Wall Street Journal.


She took a unique tactic that may interest others - she drafted a business plan that discussed the pros and cons of a possible move.

Under pros, her parents listed that they enjoyed being able to care for one another. Under cons, however, was the fact that no family member lived nearby in case of an emergency.


At the end of the discussion, it was settled. Her parents moved to a senior living facility in Memphis, Tennessee, and are now happily residing there in the company of other older adults.


One of the big problems facing family caregivers who want to discuss the topic of a retirement home is falling into traditional habits. "We take on old family roles," says Paula Spencer, a senior editor at Caring.com. "We're... thinking, 'Maybe Dad will hate me if I move him to assisted living.'"


Neglecting necessary duties is often a sign that parents may be in need of extra care. When visiting, make sure to observe any unopened letters, old food in the refrigerator or signs that the house may not be as regularly maintained.


© Copyright