Having the Discussion

Having an open and honest discussion can be a building block to a successful transition, whether that is having someone come into the home or moving into an institutional setting, like an assisted living facility.

Who should be involved?

• Your parents or the loved one
• Siblings
• Spouse
• Children
• And other key people in the lives of those involved, such as close friends

These discussions may be difficult and emotional, so the topics of discussion should be thought out ahead of time. Talk about all possible residential options, each person’s role in the transition, the type of care needed, changes in lifestyle, and finances. Clear expectations should be defined.

FAMILY DYNAMICS

This will be a time of open and frank discussions, and both positive and negative feelings within the family will come into play. Avoid taking on more than you can manage thorough familial pressure.

• Be honest with yourself and your family about the significant changes that relocating a loved one will mean for everyone.
• Embrace this time as an opportunity to come to terms with the past.
• Consider the opinions of everyone. Aim for compromise and making the decisions based on the best interests of all involved.
• Establish an agreement regarding how much and what kind of help each person will contribute.
• Make sure the financial arrangements are agreed upon and understood by everyone.
• Investigate the option of automatic payments to avoid control issues over money.
• Look into free or low-cost services that can assist with paperwork, such as Medicare, for older adults.

MAKING THE MOVE

If your loved one is moving out of a home they have had for many years, there will be strong ties to memories and daily routines. It is an emotional process, and a significant chore.

There are companies that specialize in these moves, and Our Quality Providers can assist you with finding one. If you prefer to tackle the task as a family, use the opportunity to talk about difficult feelings, acknowledge the loss and reassure your loved one that this is the best decision. Open communication will help your loved one accept the change, but patience and support will be needed. Consider outside counseling if necessary. Give them some time to come to terms with the very idea of moving out of their home.

Remember that this experience of supporting your loved can be one of the greatest experiences you can share. Embrace the opportunity to give back to your loved ones what they once provided to you.