Conversation Tips for Senior Living Discussion

The topic of moving a loved one into senior living can be uncomfortable, stressful, and emotional for many families. It's not easy to get your entire family on the same page, let alone the loved one you're considering moving into a senior retirement or care facility.

​Often we hear from people that the general situation is that, “mom is digging in her heels”, “dad is saying he will never move”, and “they think I am just trying to get rid of them”. Being well equipped for ways to tenderly and genuinely approach these difficult conversations, having tips of what to say and how to speak about a “community” versus the concept of an "old folks’ home” is important and can make all the difference for you and your senior loved one.

It's best to plan out and have these conversations early on in the process so that you, your family, and your loved one have the FREEDOM to plan versus having an emergency situation occur that leaves you with limited options.

Tips for Navigating Tough Conversations

• This is a two-way conversation, don't lecture your family members/loved one
• Highlight all of the amenities connected with a senior living community
• Come prepared with resources and ideas
• Listen to your loved one and pay attention to their concerns and feedback
• Be empathetic - not sympathetic 
• Don't force the conversation, let it flow conversationally and revisit it another time, if you feel it's not going well
• Pose questions to your loved one to ease into the conversation

Conversation Starters for Moving into Senior Living

• I know that you're comfortable and okay now, but what should we do if that changes?
• What do you think should happen if you fall or get sick and cannot care for yourself at home? Where would you like to be?
• How is it living at home alone? What are some of your comforts or discomforts?
• Do you feel safe at home?  
• When were you the most happy? What did your social, physical, environmental life look like? Do you feel like you're getting that now?
• Would you like to spend time with people your age?
• Would you be interested in other options for transportation? 
• What are some concerns you have about the house?
• What low-maintenance changes would make your life easier?
• Would you feel less stressed if you didn’t have to worry about the house?
• When you think about moving, what comes to your mind?
• Do you know anyone who has moved into a senior living community? 
• If you had the opportunity to visit a senior living community, what would make you feel comfortable? What makes you uncomfortable?​

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