Things to Ask Your Parents – Senior Downsizing in St. Louis, MO
Do you have aging parents or family members and it’s time to start considering downsizing and senior living? In this video, we’re going to look at five things you should be considering when thinking to downsize. We know that this can be a hot-button issue and a very sensitive topic to bring up, and we’re here to make that process a little easier and smoother.
Considering Downsizing and Transitioning into Senior Living Facility?
There’s always that pull as the child of wanting to bring up the topic of senior living for their safety and the concern of taking away their independence. So here are 5 tips to help make the process and transition a little easier.
Step #1
Start the conversation early. You don’t want to wait for a crisis to arise and need to make on-the-spot rushed decisions. You want to start the conversation early, keeping that open dialogue, so your parents or that family member is having all their wishes honoured. Having that conversation early also helps them to prepare for what’s ahead.
Step #2
Allowing your parents/family member to take ownership of their current situation. This is a huge step. We see it all the time when we’re sitting down with clients who are considering making the transition. They are very much aware of their age and limitations but may be afraid to express this to their family members but share it with us. When you start the conversation let them take the lead, follow their direction. They want to prepare for their future just as much as you do.
Step #3
Offer help. Once you’ve started the conversation and open dialogue, ask how you can help. Again, let them take the lead but ask how you can be of more assistance. Maybe even offer to set up a meet and greet with Senior Living.
Step #4
Offer to go with them on a tour of a senior living facility. Some people are reluctant to take that first step, so if you offer to go with them it may help them feel more at ease and relaxed.
Step #5
Acknowledge their feelings but also realize when it may be time to bring in a third party. The truth of the matter is is that this is a huge change and can be quite scary and very emotional. So acknowledge their feelings but also offer to bring in an expert in the field to help answer any lingering questions or concerns they might have.
