It’s common for adult children to have concerns about their senior parents. This can happen if they notice a sudden decline or if the changes become to worrisome to ignore.
At times the issues won’t become apparent until your loved one has a medical crisis. It’s likely for the care giving spouse to have the greatest medical issues because they have been under major stress for along time. This can be an overwhelming time for you, so we want to provide advice putting your parent in senior care.
What are Common Questions that Adult Children Ask about Senior Living?
Many of the same concerns arise when wondering if it’s time for your loved one to go to senior care.
Here are a few of the questions I often hear from families who are just beginning this complex journey:
Is It the Right Time for Senior Care
If a certain behavior is making you question their well-being then the best option is to seek professional help. Small issues, such as a urinary tract infection can cause other problems like confusion and memory issues.
A change in behavior or personality or trying to cover up memory issues are all things that should be reported to their physician. Behaviors that are important to look out for are staying in bed, not wanting to get dressed, and evidence of recent falls like bruises.
Instead of reacting to the circumstances in a negative way be proactive, start considering your options. If the situation becomes unmanageable fast it’s better to have the information ready. Maybe you’re not ready, but start to gather that information, have a file set aside and be prepared. You’re helping yourself and you’re helping your loved one.
How to Discuss Senior Care with a Loved One
It can be difficult to open the topic of senior care up for discussion. Seniors have an idea that an elderly home is going to make them lose their independence or become abandoned. It brings about a vision in their head of sitting in front of the TV all day in a wheelchair.
It’s a great idea to start touring communities to show the liveliness that a senior community can have. There are options for activities, dining, and individual apartments. Senior communities can lead to a longer independent life because it minimizes the risk of accidents.
How to Help Your Parent Overcome their Fears
It’s important to take a sensitive approach with your parent. Guiding them to overcome their fears and clear up any misconceptions about senior care. Touring a community will come in handy for this because they see the living options and are more willing to discuss long-term solutions.
It can be a frustrating situation when your parent won’t accept help and understand that they need help. They have an idea that they’re managing just fine without, but lack of awareness is common in stroke survivors or those with dementia. If it becomes difficult to reason because of their cognitive impairment get a physician involved. A senior may be more willing to listen to a perceived authority figure or expert than their child.
The Victorian Assisted Living and Retirement Community
The Victorian is an assisted living and retirement community that makes living independently, while at the same time feeling safe and secure, a reality. We strive to provide the best quality of life for all residents including those suffering from loneliness and depression.
We offer a comprehensive activity program that includes both physical and social activities to encourage emotional well-being. Our staff is trained to assist those with depression. If you or a loved one are considering assisted living, contact The Victorian today to learn more about our services or tour our community.
