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What Can Family Do to Encourage an Elderly Parent to Listen to Them About Assisted Living?

When somebody isn’t listening to you, it can be frustrating, especially if all you want is for them to be safe. You want the best for your aging mother or father, and though they have seem determined to remain where they are, you realize assisted living would be a great option.

If you could just get them to listen to you!

At this point, too many family members get frustrated, anxious, and let their fears about what might happen if this aging parent remains in the house without proper support dictate how they will talk about other options. They start pushing one topic or another too hard, and that can create resistance, which can fuel defiance and frustration, arguments and heartbreak.

There are ways to help encourage aging seniors, especially elderly parents, to at least listen closely about the topic of assisted living.

First, learn as much as you can about it.

When it comes to assisted living, the more you know about it, the more you understand, the easier it’s going to be for you to bring up the topic. You don’t have to sit down and say, “Mom, you really need to consider assisted living,” to get her to listen. You can, instead, realize that a particular facility not too far away from where she lives now not only has some of the activities going on that she loves, but some friends she hasn’t talked to in a while already living there.

The more you learn, the easier it is to find points of entry to begin this important conversation.

Second, be patient.

Rome wasn’t built in a day and even though you are completely convinced your elderly mother or father is no longer safe living at home alone, pushing them too hard, too fast is only going to put the walls up higher. Be patient, be supportive, and help them realize this is, ultimately, their choice.

Third, ask questions.

You may be completely convinced this is the best thing for them, but do you know what their thoughts are about it? They might have misconceptions or inaccurate preconceived notions about what assisted living is, and if you don’t ask, you may never realize what is keeping them from being open to this concept.

Finally, listen.

When you do ask questions, be sure to listen carefully to the answers. Don’t make assumptions or jump on top of them if you don’t agree. Give them space to speak openly and honestly. There will be time tomorrow or the next day, or next week, to discuss a counterpoint to their opinion.

For more information about senior living in Shavano Park, TX, contact Pipestone Place Assisted Living or to take a tour, call today (210) 718-0211.

I enjoy working, but when I’m not working, I love spending time with my family and the coolest kid, my son.We visit the zoo and ride the train often. We play games and just have fabulous fun.I enjoy reading every chance I get.My favorite pie is pumpkin pie.
Samuel Vesa
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