When your loved one begins to show signs that he or she can no longer live alone, the safety risks can weigh on your mind. Many seniors are resistant to assisted living or independent senior housing facilities, even if they can be the safest and most beneficial options.  Talking about the possibility of needing specialized care can be difficult. Below are some do's and don'ts to help you navigate the conversation.

Do:

Frame it positively.

Point out all the advantages that an assisted living facility or an independent senior apartment facility offers, such as having on-site care that minimizes the need to travel. Remind him or her that he or she will be in a community with numerous socialization opportunities and possibly have more time to take up a hobby or pursue an interest when laundry, housekeeping, cooking, and lawn care don’t have to be worried about getting done.  The staff at the facility are there to help create a plan of care or offer services for purchase based on need!

Have information ready.

Before your conversation, research assisted living options in your area. Collect pamphlets or print out amenity lists and photos for each one, and be ready to answer any questions your loved one may have, such as cost, requirements, and accommodations for physical disabilities. If you're prepared with knowledge about the facilities, the conversation will go smoother.

Don’t:

Push too hard.

If your loved one bristles at the suggestion of moving to an assisted community or independent senior housing facility, don't let the conversation turn into an argument. Pushing too hard can make him or her more set against it and prevent future discussions about his or her needs when the time is needed for support. Know when to step back, let everyone calm down, and wait until a different time to bring it up again.

Have the talk alone.

Have other close family members present for the discussion, or have them talk to your loved one on their own time. If multiple people are gently encouraging your loved one to consider his or her options and are expressing concern, it may make your loved one take pause. You can also ask the physician to discuss possible options and outline the benefits of assisted living or senior housing in the context of his or her current physical and mental condition.

If your loved one is looking for an assisted living community, contact Bethany St. Joseph Corporation. With locations in Onalaska, West Salem, La Crosse, Holmen, Galesville, and Westby, WI, they’ll give your loved one an enriching environment that’s close to home. They have over 43 years of experience, offer services to meet individual needs, such as dementia care and occupational therapy, and have many amenities, including housekeeping, meals, beauty shops, 24/7 staff, and planned activities. Learn more about their facilities online, and call (608) 783-1516 for more information.