Growing older is difficult. It often results in increased pains and aches, less mobility, and increased difficulty managing one’s own life. It’s no surprise that so many of our loved ones are determined to maintain their independence. Your mind wants one thing, but your body seems adamant to push you into another direction. If you are looking for senior living near Vinton, VA, but your loved ones are refusing help, this guide might provide some advice and tips to help you.
Modify Your Approach
When what you’re doing isn’t working, it’s time to try something new. Don’t just repeat the same dialogue over and over again. Some possible strategies include:
- Rather than expressing your fear and frustration, express your concern and love.
- Emphasizing the advantages of assisted living, such as exploring the different types of suites available and making new friends through fun activities.
Consider soliciting feedback from people you respect. Ask them if you’re being too controlling, too pushy, or otherwise taking a risky approach. Then adjust your strategy accordingly.
Pull Back
If you’ve tried approaching your loved one gently without success, consider taking a step back for a while. When a senior refuses assisted living and feels coerced into it, it’s easier for them to believe they’ve lost control of their lives. Consider taking a break for a few days. This can give your loved one time to reflect and evaluate the situation, which in turn helps determine whether they require assisted living.
Express Your Emotions
If you have a positive relationship with a senior in your life, they will be concerned about your feelings. Instead of telling them they are sick, express your own emotions. Among the scripts to try are:
“I want us to be happy but assisting you with day-to-day tasks makes it difficult for me to parent my children.”
“I’m feeling tired all the time, and you don’t appear to be happy either. I’m looking for a way to assist both of us.”
“I’m worried about you because I love you a lot. I want us to find ways to maintain your independence, become livelier, and remain safe.”
Don’t make them feel like they’re a burden. Don’t accuse them of being self-centered.
The goal is to center your concerns and present assisted living as a solution.
Seek Help from Others
Consider how you might react if your partner tells you your shirt is unflattering. Your reaction will be different if it comes from a close friend, hence the messenger is important. Changing the messenger can sometimes make all the difference. Some people to seek assistance from include:
- Your loved one’s trusted friend group.
- A reputable doctor. Encourage the trusted doctor to emphasize the hazards of continuing to live on their own.
- Another relative with whom your loved one gets along well with. You might consider soliciting their assistance as well.
