As seniors age, it can be hard for them to continue living at home. While nursing care centers are an excellent solution, moving a loved one into a facility can be a heartbreaking experience. The senior care professionals at West Vue, Inc., with locations on Davis Drive and North Kentucky Avenue in West Plains, MO, understand the guilt family members might feel about this decision and want to help you cope with it. In most cases, the adjustment takes time and patience.

For many seniors, the primary issue they have with moving to a retirement community is the fear of losing independence. Aging-in-place has become a popular alternative, but older loved ones — especially those with advanced medical conditions — often need care that’s hard for a child to provide. This leads many families to choose a nursing center for a senior loved one.

Reaching this decision involves a difficult role reversal, especially when it’s between a child and parent. No adult wants decisions made on their behalf, and a senior initially might feel unhappy about moving to a retirement home. You may have the urge to check on them constantly because of this, but it’s important to give them room to breathe and time to adapt to their new setting. Once they’re relieved of the stress of handling daily chores and have acclimated to their new residence, they could have a renewed feeling of independence.

If you continue to feel guilt, it’s helpful to confide in siblings or friends with similar experiences. A support system is essential, especially if you and your loved one have negative confrontations about the move when you visit. Don't let this deter you from spending time with them, and focus on treating them well. An empathetic attitude will help you ease back into your regular relationship, and an organic recovery will smooth abrasive feelings.

When you move a parent or another loved one into a retirement home, remember the decision is in their best interest and they are in safer, caring hands. The friendly staff members at West Vue, Inc. are dedicated to treating residents with compassion and cultivating a sense of community. To discuss their senior care facilities, call (417) 256-2152 for their Davis Drive location or (417) 256-1292 for their North Kentucky Avenue location. Visit their website for more information about their care center options.