Assisted living can help with so many of the difficulties of getting older. It provides trained professionals to assist with anything residents might need throughout the day and gives folks in their golden years a tight-knit community and plenty of enriching activities to enjoy.
However, not everyone looks forward to or is willing to move into an assisted living facility. Getting older can be difficult for many reasons, and many elderly parents who refuse assisted living would rather continue living in their homes no matter their health status.
If you’re looking for additional ways to encourage your loved one to transition to assisted living, don’t hesitate to contact us today at 903.329.6520 to learn more about the value we can provide for them.
What to Do When an Elderly Parent Refuses to Move to Assisted Living
Can you force an elderly parent into a nursing home? The answer is more complex than you might think. Here are a few of the best ways to discuss assisted living with your family member.
Don’t Approach with Anger or Frustration
If you have a frustrated or angry tone when you talk to an older person about moving into an assisted living facility, they’re much more likely to become defensive or resistant to the idea.
Approach this subject with care and sensitivity for any older person, especially for elderly parents who refuse assisted living. Even if additional care is something they need for their health, they’ll be less likely to agree to it if it’s a point of contention between you.
Give Them Space and Time
If you’ve tried to bring up the topic of moving into an assisted living facility a few times and your elderly parent refuses to move, give them a bit of time.
Even if the decision needs to be made soon, giving them a week or two to settle into the idea and work through their feelings could result in a completely different experience the next time the topic is brought up.
Be Honest with Your Feelings
In some cases, the final push that a person needs to agree to assisted living is hearing about the ways in which it would help their loved one in addition to helping them. If your elderly parent refuses to move after understanding all the many benefits they could enjoy, it might make a difference to hear how it could benefit their family too.
Additionally, emotional honesty and openness can help remove any resentment in the interaction and make both parties feel more comfortable.
Get Help from Other Loved Ones
There may come a point when you feel that you simply can’t get through to your loved one concerning assisted living and their future. In this instance, try enlisting the help of other trusted people in your family member’s life. A pastor, doctor, or trusted friend may be able to explain the situation in a different and helpful way.
Consult with an Elder Care Lawyer
If your loved one continues to refuse the help they need, speak to an elder care lawyer to figure out your next steps. This type of professional could answer the question, “Can you force an elderly parent into a nursing home?” They can also advise you on topics like:
- Elder law
- Elder rights
- Seeking guardianship
- Geriatric social workers
With all the legal facts under your belt, you can make a more informed plan of action when it comes to getting your family member into the care of a great assisted living facility.
Assisted Living You Can Trust for Your Loved Ones at Westminster Place
Ready to learn more about how assisted living at Westminster Place could elevate your loved one’s golden years? Contact our team today by calling 903.329.6520 or completing our online form.