Elder Care - How to Overcome Objections to Moving to a Senior Care Community

When family members see their parents or loved ones staring to need additional help they are faced with having to make the decision to move them to Assisted Living. The assisted living environment offers seniors the freedom to live independently in a supportive setting. They can have as little or as much help as needed. The socialization that seniors get in Assisted Living leads to a much better quality of life. I have had several residents tell me over the years, that they wish they would have moved in sooner.

The problem arises when the senior refuses to move. Here are a couple of effective strategies for helping a senior make the transition to assisted living.

1. Try before you buy- The best thing to do for a reluctant senior is to get them used to the idea slowly. There are several options for getting seniors slowly acclimated to the idea of moving into assisted living. You can try a Respite stay which is a short term stay, in a community that does not require a long term contract. Respite stays are generally from 2 days to 2 weeks. Having your loved one stay for the weekend will give them a good feel for what the community has to offer and often, is enough to dispel some of the dated misconceptions that seniors hold. Most communities charge a fee for a respite stay, but many will allow a perspective resident to enjoy a complimentary meal or two. This experience allows the senior to meet some of the residents and sample the food and services of the community. The senior may also want to attend a special event or a particular activity that interest them. All of these things should be done without putting pressure on the senior to make a decision. If the senior feels forced they will be more hesitant to move.

2. Listen to what is being said- Is the senior afraid of losing their freedom or independence, are they afraid of giving up their personal belongings, or are they holding on to an outdated concept of senior housing? You have to listen closely and help the senior work through their concerns. Sometimes the concerns are simply a cover for not wanting to move at all. If this is the case time and patience will are your best ally.

These tips are great starting points and the professionals at the community can help you to come up with other strategies. Keep an open mind, use some creativity, and be as patient as possible and most of the time you will be able to help the senior make the move to a senior living community.

Vernon Roberson, M.A., L.N.H.A