When a parent or other relative reaches their golden years, they may need some assistance in order to live comfortably and maintain their health. Understanding when elderly care is necessary, how to transition into a nursing home or independent living community, and how to communicate your concerns to your loved one can be a delicate process. Here’s some helpful information to assist with these conversations and move forward as a united family. 

A Guide to Discussing Elderly Care With a Senior Loved One

What Signs Indicate It’s Time to Explore Nursing Homes?

As you catch up with a senior loved one, take notice of their overall appearance. Lack of hygiene, grooming, or disheveled clothing could indicate they’re having trouble with mobility or completing household chores. When possible, plan frequent social visits at their home so you can better monitor their living conditions. A messy house, lack of groceries, inability to prepare meals, spoiled food, or safety hazards should be noted and addressed. In addition, a senior who is showing signs of memory loss, irritability, depression, loneliness, trouble managing medication, or small scrapes and bruises will likely benefit from elderly care to ensure safety, a higher quality of life, and enhanced opportunities for socialization. 

What’s the Best Way to Start a Conversation About Seeking Senior Care?

Before sitting your senior loved one down, take a moment to consider how they’ll feel when faced with a transition into elderly care. Host the discussion in their home or an area where they’ll feel relaxed and at ease. Instead of telling your loved one they must move into a nursing home, approach the topic gently. Know that this discussion may not be finalized in one sitting. It could take several conversations before your loved one is comfortable with the idea.

When discussing elderly care, always speak positively and from a place of knowledge about nearby facilities and the benefits they’ll enjoy as a resident. A combination of expressing your concerns about their well-being and sharing factual information on the reality of living within these communities can help open them up to the idea. Once your loved one shows a willingness to move forward, schedule a tour of a senior community so they can see the advantages firsthand. 

If you have a senior loved one in Monroe County, AL, that could benefit from elderly care in a warm, inviting nursing home setting, Englewood Health Care Center is an ideal option. Conveniently located in Monroeville, this facility believes in empowering residents so they can enjoy independent living and social activities under the attentive supervision of skilled nurses. Call today at (251) 575-3285 to schedule a tour and visit their website for more information on their care options.