How To Talk To Your Parents About Retirement Communities

by 
Living Livita
January 17, 2020
Retirement Communities

If you feel like it may be time for your parents to consider retirement communities in Oakville as part of their next phase of life, you need to have a plan before you approach them about it. While you may have their best interests at heart, understand that the prospect of moving to a senior independent residence can be a difficult and emotional choice.

Moving to a retirement community requires a change in everyday lifestyle, remember that your parents will have to sort through and pack up the place that they have called home for a large portion of their life. Improving their safety and quality of living are wonderful things offered by retirement communities, however, a shift in their mindset will be required and it may take time.

Tips For Knowing How To Start

Talking to your parents about a transition to a senior independent residence can be challenging. First and foremost, make sure you are being respectful and avoid being pushy. Try to imagine yourself having this same conversation with your own children when the time comes. In addition, you may be surprised at what the most important issues are for them, so be ready to keep an open mind.

The most significant thing you and your family can do is to just start the conversation, and start it early.  It’s best not to leave it to the point where your parent’s safety is a big concern. Being open with them helps empower them with this decision. If you are not sure about the best approach, here are a few ways that can be helpful.

  1. Ask about their home upkeep and maintenance. Are they feeling overwhelmed about the upkeep of their house? From landscaping to minor repairs, see if they are open to getting help in these areas and how they feel about it. You may be surprised to hear that they enjoy taking care of these tasks or how ready they are to release the burden.
  • Inquire about cooking and meal time. Do they find it easy to cook for just one or two people? Do they mention how nice it would be to not have to cook for themselves? Find out how often they get to the grocery store and if they are able to have healthy foods at home each week. Are they happy to continue preparing all their own meals at home?
  • Be open about your own retirement planning. This can be a great introduction to broach a new subject. As you discuss what your own visions for retirement might be, it’s a great time to ask them what they want and how they feel about retirement communities. This type of open discussion tends to be much more welcome than making it an acute conversation telling them what you think about what is next for them.
  • Ask them what is making them happy these days. Find out if they are still able to get out and see their friends and participate in the community. Are there things they’d like to do but find it difficult? Are there still new interests and hobbies they’d like to pursue but aren’t sure how? This is a great way to positively frame the social benefits that come with living in a senior independent residence.

A Senior Independent Residence Can Help Seniors Thrive

We invite you and your parents to tour Queens Avenue Retirement Residence in Oakville to learn more about all we have to offer, from dining options to health and wellness services, and engagement opportunities.  This can be an excellent first step in helping seniors see firsthand all the positives available and that retirement communities can help them build a robust and rewarding life! Ready to learn more? Contact us

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