Regardless of one’s age or condition, moving to a senior living residence is a big life change. When a person is considering a senior living residence for a loved one, finding a suitable way to approach the topic is not always easy. As senior housing specialists in finding private retirement homes for seniors, the Bonjour Résidences team is regularly approached for assistance with this type of situation. Here are some tips and recommendations from our senior housing specialists on how to discuss the subject of retirement homes with your loved ones.
Understanding Your Parents Needs and Concerns
The thought of moving to a senior living residence can raise both concerns and reluctance. This is why it is important to take the time to gently approach the issue. This will allow you to respect your parent's pace and keep the conversation open.
Before talking about it, we recommend that you do some research on the senior livign residences that are available. Once you are familiar with the various options, you can show them to your parents in due course.
To avoid making an uncomfortable decision, start by opening up the discussion by asking your parents about their needs and desires for the future. This will also be an opportunity to share your own concerns.
For instance, you may be concerned that you cannot provide them with proper care in the event that they lose autonomy. It is important that you mention this to your loved ones in order to come up with possible solutions to these concerns together. Also take the time to reassure them that you are simply concerned about their well-being and happiness.
Thanks to a successful first conversation, you could include your parents in the decision making process which will allow them to slowly and confidently transition.
Taking the Next Steps at Your Own Pace
It is normal to face hesitation when it comes to preparing to move into a private senior living residence. This is why we consider that the person should take their time in making their decision and explore the options that are available to them.
To prepare for this transition, start by explaining the benefits of living in a senior living residence!
A Decision to Prepare For
As much as possible, we recommend that you plan this transition in advance. Indeed, it is more difficult to find a suitable residence at the last minute. By beginning your research ahead of time, you will have more choices. In addition, you will be able to better identify your preferences and the needs of your parents.
Preparing upstream also allows you to anticipate a potential loss of autonomy. If your loved ones do not feel comfortable or able to come to the aid of a parent, preparing to live in a senior living residence will be a reassuring alternative.
In addition, it is easier to join a senior living residence as an independent senior. Staff will get to know your relatives and bond with them. When the first signs of loss of autonomy appear, the retirement home will be more inclined to help them with the care and services adapted to their situation.
In some cases, a senior living residence can no longer provide the appropriate care for your parents (sudden and significant loss of autonomy, for instance). However, the transition can be made more simply if they have already been living in a residence. They can send the file to their next place of residence, which will administer the appropriate care.
Note that in the event of a change of residence for medical reasons, it is possible to terminate your lease with a notice.
Throughout your preparation, you will be able to discuss the best options with your parents and then plan visits to see the senior living residences that interest you.
Properly Choosing One’s Retirement Home: Factors to Consider
When you start looking for a residence for your parents, come together to discuss the essential needs according to different criteria:
- Type of senior living residence: housing for independent and semi-autonomous retirees, long-term care, etc.
- Size of the unit: studio, 2 ½, 3 ½, 4 ½ or a single room.
- Activities: Socialization is essential to maintain cognitive activity, memory and physical fitness. Many activities are offered in residence with free participation. This helps to combat the isolation of the elderly and its long-term impacts.
- Services: Are meals, cleaning, activities included in the rent or offered by the residence?
- Security and health care services: Are there facilities, equipment and health professionals available on site? For what levels of care and conditions?
- Budget: is the rent adequate for my finances?
- Location: note that some senior living residences are sometimes further away, but the services may be better suited to the person.
On the Bonjour Résidences website, you can get to know some of the senior living residences and select your criteria to find the locations that would best suit your parents.
Bonjour Résidences: A Personalized Accompaniment Service to Help You Find the Ideal Retirement Home
Depending on the region, budget, condition or personal preferences of you and your loved ones, many residences could be considered as the next place for your parents to live. To guide you in your research, our advisers will be happy to help you!
With years of experience supporting families and seniors, our team is made up of dedicated, dynamic senior housing specialists who listen to your needs. In addition, our services are completely free for families who want support in their research, without pressure or commitment.
Whether you want to explore your options, obtain information or find accommodation for your parents, the Bonjour Résidences team will be able to assist you. Apply for housing online or contact us at 1 844 918-1020 to chat with one of our senior housing specialists.
