Talking to Your Parents About Senior Living

Posted: November 5, 2021

Having A Conversation About Senior Living

There comes a time in life when you may notice a change in the quality of life for your parents. That change may be the result of memory loss, physical limitations, or a drop in emotional well-being, oftentimes caused by isolation. No matter what the reason is for the drop in their quality of life, one thing for certain is you want to help – but where do you start?

Here are some tips on talking to your parents about senior living:

1. Set a time to have the conversation.
2. Make sure there are no other distractions before you start the conversation.
3. Avoid talking during stressful situations.
4. Respect and honor the ability of your parent(s) to make this decision with you. It is important to define what they perceive as “a quality life,” whether in a community setting or through using supporting services within their own home. Once this is defined, ask how you can partner with them to make their wishes a reality. Use “I” and “We” statements. When bridging emotional topics, the use of I and We statements is the most effective. For instance, “I am concerned about your health because you are not getting proper meals with good nutrition” or “We have been noticing over the past few months that it feels like you’re lonely now that you’re not driving.”
5. Educate and explore. Whether their decision is to move to a senior living community or to utilize supportive services such as home care, you all need to understand the options and conduct research. Learn more about the assisted living and memory care options at Cappella of Grand Junction.
6. If other family members are involved, your parent(s) need to make their wishes known to all and gain everyone’s support.
7. Talk often. The decision to move to a community, unless during crisis mode, typically happens over a period of time. Be prepared to revisit the conversation several times.

Read about other topics to discuss with your parent now to ensure their wishes are carried out as they age.

Advantages of Senior Living

Given an option, some older adults prefer to “age in place” or remain in their home as long as possible. However, home is not always the safest place  for aging parents and may not be the best option for them. An assisted living community can provide significant advantages to older adults who are feeling isolated and would benefit from a little extra support with activities of daily living or families who are struggling with caregiver burnout.

Recent studies suggest that loneliness rivals smoking and obesity as a health risk. Human contact is healthy – and at Cappella of Grand Junction, we foster it through volunteer opportunities, board game and karaoke nights, and cozy living rooms that invite a fireside chat.

Residents in our assisted living and memory support have lots of opportunities to engage with others who share their interests and tastes. Our calendar is filled with the social, spiritual, and recreational activities that make our senior living community in Grand Junction such a special place to call home.

Friendships flourish through everyday interactions with the dedicated people on our team. Skilled, caring, and professional, our care partners are an integral part of the Cappella community and are committed to providing exceptional senior care services to each resident as an individual. We’ve created a senior living community in Grand Junction where every day is enriched, and every person is valued. Read more about our philosophy and our signature programs.

Take this Dementia assessment to get a better idea of your parents needs.

Freedom Through Vaccination at Cappella Grand Junction

You and your parents might have questions about our current COVID-19 protocols including mask and vaccine requirements. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. According to the CDC, once fully vaccinated, individuals can resume many of the activities that they enjoyed prior to the pandemic.

We are thrilled that the COVID-19 vaccine is helping life return to normal through loosened restrictions for regulated levels of senior living. We are encouraging all residents and team members to receive the vaccination.

For additional information, including the freedoms vaccinated residents enjoy and restrictions, testing, and quarantine requirements for those who are unvaccinated see the Latest Updates section on our COVID-19 update page.

Read about other topics to discuss with your parent now to ensure their wishes are carried out as they age.

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If you need any help talking to your parents about senior living, we’re here! Give us a call: 970-840-8024.