Talking to your parents about assisted living in Stuart, FL, can be tough. It’s a discussion you don’t want to have, but it’s necessary if they’re not able to live independently anymore. And if they are independent, it’s still a meaningful discussion because as we age, we need regular check-ins with our healthcare providers to stay healthy and out of the hospital. Here are some tips for having this important talk with your parents:
Plan the Conversation Ahead
Before the conversation, think about the situation and how you want to approach it. Plan what you will say in advance. If you are having a hard time finding a way to start the conversation, here’s some advice from experts:
- Write down some questions or concerns your parents might have so you can save them from feelings of being judged by their child for asking such questions.
- Have someone else involved who can help plan this important event, such as an attorney or financial planner. He can advise on how much money is available for assisted living costs. He will also know where in America those funds can be accessed most easily during this difficult moment when family members need answers quickly before making any rash decisions about their loved ones’ lives.
Educate Them on Real Assisted Living Costs
You may think that a facility’s advertised price is the actual cost of assisted living, but this is only true sometimes. Many factors can affect the actual cost of an assisted living community.
Consider the following:
- Costs vary by location. The state in which you live will determine how much you pay for assisted living care. Assisted living costs vary depending on where your parents want to move—some areas have more affordable options than others.
- Costs differ by type of community. Your parents’ needs and preferences will determine whether they’re better matched with a retirement community or skilled nursing home (if they need more medical services), independent living community (if they need less assistance), or other types of residential senior housing communities like Memory Care or continuing care retirement communities (if they want to be able to stay at one place without having to move). Each type has its monthly rates based on what amenities it offers as well as its size and location within town limits, so speak with several different providers before making any decisions about moving out of their current residence if possible.
Save the Discussion for When Things are Calm
The best time to talk with your parents about assisted living costs is when things are calm. It’s better to do it when they’re not upset or stressed. This is also a good way to make sure that you aren’t interrupting anything important.
This isn’t the easiest thing in the world, but try not to discuss assisted living costs at dinner time—that’s stressful enough as it is! Go somewhere quiet where you can sit down together and talk without interruption. And if one of you has a lot going on in your life right now, wait until everything calms down before bringing up this topic.
Acknowledge Their Needs for Independence, Safety and Fun
As you begin to talk with your parents about assisted living, it’s essential to allow them to make their own decisions. They may want to remain independent in their current home as long as possible and could be offended if offered an alternative. Instead, listen closely to what they want and avoid judging their wishes or rushing them into making a decision before they are ready.
You can also ask your parents if they’ve thought about assisted living in Stuart, FL. If they say yes, ask them what factors have led them to this decision.
If they haven’t thought or talked about it yet, let them know that there are many options available and encourage them to do some research on their own time.
Conclusion
These tips will prepare you for the conversation and make you feel more confident about discussing assisted living costs. Take your time with this decision, and only rush into something once you think it through thoroughly. Remember that it is always possible for them to move back home or stay where they are for as long as possible!
