Discussing assisted living with an aging parent is never an easy conversation. Learn how to handle the transition with g
FAMILY / TALKING POINTS
Senior Moment
Discussing assisted living with an aging parent is never an easy conversation. Learn how to handle the transition with grace and compassion. By Melissa Walker
“The dialogue should start before a move becomes imminent. The first talk was tough, since my mom didn’t want to leave home. Then there was a medical crisis. When a change had to be made, I told her that my sisters and I wanted her to be part of the decision—otherwise it’d be us standing in a hospital corridor trying to figure out where she should go. She appreciated the honesty and we signed her up for a good place soon after that.” —AMY DICKINSON, author and the Chicago Tribune’s syndicated “Ask Amy” advice columnist
“Meet with an elder law attorney before health concerns arise. You can also discuss longterm care insurance. It’s expensive, but not as costly as a home nurse or nursing home. Talk to an independent insurance advisor and look for longterm care policies that are indexed for inflation. Also consider a springing power of attorney, which puts you in charge of your parents’ finances if, and only if, they become incapacitated.” —KEN MAHONEY, financial advisor and author of Now What? A Guide to Retirement During Volatile Times
WHERE TO TURN • Assisted Living Federation of America, alfa.org • Caregiving Resource Center, aarp.org • assistedlivingtoday.com
94 OCT 2014 FAMILYCIRCLE.COM
tips
“If you disagree with family members about the next steps for your parents, don’t let mom and dad see you fighting. Siblings regress to childish behavior when the emotional stakes are raised. Go somewhere public, where everyone is more apt to speak politely. You can also talk it through with a social worker or counselor, minister or rabbi. Remember your common goal—taking care of your parents with love and respect.” —LAUREN BLOOM, JD, author of Art of the Apology
Check their fridge. Is the milk expired and the produce spoiled? The kitchen holds clues to whether your parents can still live independently. Try to understand their point of view. Being told you have to move because you are infirm is difficult. Remind them that you’ll always be there to help. Determine what each family member can contribute. The sister who’s good with paperwork can fill out forms. The brother who’s a great communicator can handle calls with caregivers. Make the new place feel like home. Bring mementoes for their room or their favorite foods when you visit.
