How to Talk to Mom & Dad About Long-Term Care Options

You can act like the issue doesn’t exist and pretend there’s no problem like 75% of families do. But when you get to that point it’s hard to ignore, take a deep breath, set aside some time, and utilize these tips to begin the conversation about long-term care options with your loved one.

Aging is an inherent part of life and at times comes with lots of changes and challenges. Let’s be honest, the demands of this world are only becoming harder and challenging especially as we grow older.

The process of transitioning from independent living to long-term care can be overwhelming and quite emotional for many to address. That’s why many seen to avoid talking about until the need to talk about long-term care options becomes unavoidable. We are here to help you manage this unfamiliar/uncomfortable topic so that you and your parents one can gain the confidence needed to openly talk about long-term care options and overcome any fear or misconceptions regarding having this conversation.

So how can you start this conversation with your parents? Here are a few tips that will get the ball rolling. Remember, these tips will only work when spoken with a lot of love and concern.

1. Research about Long Term Care Options

Some of you might feel guilty about considering Long-Term Care options for your parents because you feel like you are abandoning them, but it is just the contrary. Long Term Care provides various levels and options of care that may benefit your loved ones when they can no longer take care of themselves. It shows a sense of care and concern for the well-being of your parents and relatives who are growing weaker and vulnerable. This topic is very sensitive and full of emotions so always be mindful about their feelings. Gather adequate information about various options that your parents might need, especially if they have a medical condition or need care in terms of their health. Discussing about their finances can also give perspective of what kind of care they are able to afford and how you can pitch in the budget.

2. Share how much you appreciate them

Remember how you needed your parents every minute of the day as you were growing up? Your parents have always felt useful but as you got older, it seemed that you needed them less. They still want to feel the same way and by staying at home, they can control that outcome. This is why long term care is very sensitive therefore, approach it with much love and appreciation towards them. Share how much you appreciate their care and help. At the same time, express how you would like to care for them just as they did for you.

3. Start an Ongoing discussion early

Starting the conversation of Long Term Care when your parents are still able to live safely in the community, allows them to be open and less threatened. They will less likely feel that their kids are ganging up on them since it will be an evolving conversation that ensures everyone feels heard and accepted. Have the conversation in a casual, comfortable spot, like at the kitchen table. You can start by saying, “Mum, Dad, I know this topic is hard to talk about, but I want to make sure that you will be okay. But I need to know exactly what your plans are for the future. You don’t have to tell me everything today, but let’s just start the discussion, so we can stay focused on preparing for the future.”

4. Keep them Involved in decisions

Everyone likes to be involved in decisions that determine their everyday life. Choosing a Long term care option for your loved ones is very crucial since this will be part of his or her daily life. If they are healthy enough, involve them in touring the senior living communities. You never know, they might actually make friends during those visits and be more comfortable with the decision! Make them feel like they are part of the process and they will be focused on caring for themselves as the rest of the family does for them.

These tips are a doorway passage to get the ball rolling but only if you express them with love and concern. Your parents will respond positively when they realize that you are only concerned about their health and well-being. You can get more tips from our website at www.southerncomfortseniorliving.com. Here at Southern Comfort Senior Living, we offer long term care options in a personal home. We listen to the needs of our resident in order to understand their limitations and find better ways of meeting their needs. We offer comfort and security to your loved ones and we ensure that they receive the best level of care around the clock. In case you and your parents would like to visit us, send us a message or call (678)656-5255. We will be glad to schedule a visit for you. We love to ease your journey and walk the journey with you and your parents in this time of their lives.