Community Corner
How to Talk to Your Parents About Senior Living
Compassionate tips to help you start an open, respectful conversation with aging parents about senior living options and retirement planning
This is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.
Talking to your parents about a move to senior living is never easy, but it’s an important step in planning for their long-term comfort, safety and independence. Approaching the conversation with empathy and preparation can help ease worry for everyone.
One of the first signs that it may be time to discuss senior living is a noticeable change in daily routines. During weekend visits or when gathering at the holidays, pay attention to unopened mail, expired food, missed medications, mobility challenges or confusion during everyday tasks. These subtle shifts often signal that additional support available at independent and assisted living communities like Arbor View Senior Living – such as medication management, meal preparation, housekeeping, and assistance with activities of daily living – could improve your parents’ quality of life.
When you’re ready to start the conversation, choose a calm, unhurried setting. Begin by asking open-ended questions like: How have you been feeling at home lately? Are there daily tasks that are becoming more difficult? Listening first shows respect and builds trust. From there, gently introduce the idea of exploring senior living as a way to enhance independence, not limit it.
Don’t be surprised if the first attempt at discussing senior living is rebuffed and even met with resentment. If that is the case, drop the subject and give it time before you bring it up again. An opportunity to restart the conversation may present itself if your mom falls and sprains her ankle or your dad complains about the endless chores involved with maintaining the house or shoveling snow.
Always follow the parents’ lead in the conversation. While adult children may recognize signs it’s time for a move, everyone must be on board as much as possible. Ideally, both adult children and their parents can have a say in the final decision, which will ultimately make everyone feel more secure. Highlight the benefits of today’s retirement communities, including maintenance-free living, restaurant-style dining, social connection, activities, housekeeping, safety/security features and on-site support. Offer to tour a variety of communities together so your parents feel included in every decision. Reassure them that you want to understand their priorities, whether that’s staying active, maintaining privacy or having peace of mind. Work together to develop a pros and cons list for moving versus staying at home; this may help put things in perspective financially, practically and emotionally.
Always emphasize the positive when it comes to their decision regarding senior living. Offer support and be a sympathetic listener as they work through their concerns. Keep reminding them it’s their turn to focus on having fun, pursuing their hobbies and interests with new friends, and experiencing the things they’ve never had time for.
Above all, remember that this is an ongoing dialogue. By approaching the topic early and with patience, compassion, and clear information, you can help your parents feel confident about the path ahead—and be supported every step of the way.
Arbor View Senior Living provides a welcoming, supportive environment where older adults can enjoy safety, independence and meaningful connections. If you’re beginning the conversation about senior living with a parent, our team is here to guide you with clarity and compassion. To learn more, call 303-732-5909 or visit arborviewsl.com. Our leasing professionals can provide a free consultation, schedule a tour and answer any questions you may have.
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