Let Go of These Common Fears About Moving Mom or Dad to Senior Living.
There are several common fears about transitioning mom or dad to an independent or assisted living community. It’s a big change that is often an emotional time for your parent – and for you. Instead of focusing on your concerns and common fears, use these tips to focus on how you can support mom through this transition.
Dad/Mom’s lifestyle will be less active.
You may worry that your parent’s senior living community will cause him/her to lose touch with the activities he/she enjoys. Too often, adult children think that mom or dad will no longer have the independence to choose his/her schedule or participate in his/her favorite hobbies. In reality, assisted living communities typically provide more chances to stay active. Not only do they offer built-in transportation, but they also offer daily activities and events.
Even more, senior living helps prevent isolation. By providing social connections and plenty of activities, it will reduce the potentially negative effects of loneliness. You’ll likely find that mom’s new community keeps her engaged in a way that she wouldn’t have been in her old home.
The care won’t meet his/her needs.
You want what’s best for mom or dad. If you’ve been actively involved in his/her care, you may worry about turning that care over to others. You might start by talking with his/her doctor for guidance about the support needed. Then, make a list of the essentials you want in your parent’s new community. This may include specifics in regard to safety, nutrition, activity, help with daily living, and medications. Once you find a community that feels comfortable and provides quality care, you’ll feel confident in your decision.
Moving dad/mom makes me feel guilty.
Guilt is a normal emotion, especially if you’ve had to change plans or mom or dad is unsure about the move. At the same time, don’t let guilt stop you from doing what’s needed. By making a hard decision to get your parent quality care, you have her best interests at heart. You may find it helpful to talk to a friend or a professional about your feelings.
Mom/Dad may miss his/her old life.
Mom or dad has many happy memories in his/her old home. But, he/she will make many great memories in the new community too. While there may be a period of transition, in the end, your parent will likely enjoy his/her new place. To ease your worries, talk with other residents or the community’s staff. Senior living communities offer many chances to get engaged, meet others, and do new things. He/She will also benefit from a safer environment, social connections, and quality care.
He/She will run out of money.
The costs of senior living may not be much more than aging in place. When you add up the monthly expenses of a home, they may actually be similar to a community. Do your research to understand all of your different options for paying for mom’s care. You’ll feel less worried when you have a complete financial picture.
The American Senior Housing Association says families should start by looking at what Medicaid, Medicare, and veteran’s benefits do – and do not – cover. Review any long-term care insurance policies or the option to convert a life insurance policy to cover costs.
Need help with the transition to a senior living community? Learn more about our community and how we support you through each step.
Call (972) 725-7676 and speak with a representative who can help meet your needs.
