When Your Parents Need Assisted Living: A Step-by-Step Guide
Helping Your Parents Transition to Assisted Living
There’s a strong possibility that at some point, your parents may need additional care to continue living safely and independently. While many adult children take in their parents to provide care, this isn’t always a feasible option. Some families are geographically distant, others may be estranged, and many adults find it impossible to balance caregiving with work and family obligations.
In such cases, families turn to senior living options, including assisted living. If you’re in this situation, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you and your parents navigate the transition with confidence.
Step 1: Have an Honest Conversation with Your Parent
The first step is to communicate openly with your parent about their needs and the available options. This conversation can be difficult, as no one wants to seem patronizing or controlling. If you’re worried about that, blame it on a doctor’s recommendation or a senior care advisor’s suggestion—having a credible, objective opinion can make the conversation easier.
In many cases, your parents may have already considered assisted living and just need to hear that you’re on their side. If they’re resistant—and many are—ask them to humor you by visiting a community together. Once they experience the environment and see the benefits, they’re often more receptive and feel empowered by being part of the decision-making process.
Step 2: Work with a Care Advisor
Once you’ve opened the discussion about assisted living, the next step is to consult with a senior care advisor. Care advisors are experienced professionals who can help you:
- Plan and research senior living options
- Arrange tours of appropriate communities
- Explore financial aid options such as VA benefits or Medicaid
Many people worry about the cost of assisted living, but care advisors leave no stone unturned. If your parent is a veteran or the spouse of a veteran, they may be eligible for VA benefits. While Medicare doesn’t cover long-term care, Medicaid may, and care advisors can guide you through the application process.
The best part? Senior care advising services are free of charge, giving you expert guidance without added financial pressure.
Step 3: Tour the Communities Thoroughly
Once you’ve connected with an advisor, the next step is to tour several senior living communities. Advisors will help arrange tours, but it’s also a good idea to visit on your own or with your parent to get a full sense of the environment.
Here are a few touring tips to ensure you find the right fit:
- Visit multiple times. Go at different times of day to see how things operate during meals, activities, and quieter hours.
- Observe resident interactions. If residents seem engaged, content, and socially active, it’s a good sign.
- Watch the staff. Are they interacting warmly with residents? Do they know the residents by name? This can indicate a genuine sense of community.
- Ask lots of questions. What types of care are available? What are the dining options? How are activities organized?
Make sure you and your parent feel comfortable in the environment—this will play a big role in their ability to settle in and thrive.
Step 4: Make the Decision and Prepare for the Move
Once you’ve completed your tours and found the right community, it’s time to make the decision and prepare for the move. The goal is to only move once—choosing the right community from the start ensures your parent won’t need to move again as their needs change.
Here are a few moving tips to make the transition smoother:
- Involve your parent in the process. Let them choose which personal items to bring and how to arrange their new space.
- Personalize their new environment. Familiar belongings will make their new home feel more comfortable and reduce the stress of moving.
- Visit frequently. Your presence will reassure them that they haven’t been “left behind” and help them adjust to the change.
Final Thoughts: Start the Process Early for the Best Outcome
The key to a successful transition is starting the process before a crisis occurs. The more time you have to plan, tour, and discuss options, the easier it will be to make a thoughtful decision without the pressure of an emergency.
Working with a care advisor helps you find the right community while also addressing any financial or logistical challenges. Involving your parent in the process empowers them and helps them feel more in control of their future.
If you’re ready to explore senior living options for your parent, contact Concierge Care Advisors today. Our expert advisors will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your loved one finds a place where they can thrive. Schedule a free consultation now and start planning with peace of mind.
