Sometimes, the hardest part about planning for the future is convincing a parent to refuse memory care. This can be especially difficult if your parent doesn’t have dementia because they may not see much point in moving into a facility. If this is how your parent feels, it’s important to respect their feelings while also finding ways to convince them that they need help with daily tasks. Here are some tips on how you can convince your loved one:
Respect Their Feelings.
Respect the parent’s feelings and be respectful. This is a tough situation, so it’s important to remember that this isn’t about you or your needs; it’s about the parent. As such, it’s important not to be dismissive of the parent’s feelings. Don’t act as if they’re being irrational or ridiculous by refusing memory care for their loved one. Similarly, don’t condescend to them by making assumptions about why they feel that way (e.g., “You just need some time adjusting,” etc.).
At times like these, patience and understanding are key for both parties involved—you and your parents—to effectively communicate without getting upset or frustrated (which could make matters worse).
Be Honest About Their Condition
It is important, to be honest about their condition and what it means for them. You should also be honest about the retirement communities and what they offer, as well as the staff and what they do. Be sure to give an accurate cost estimate, including any extras that might come up along the way (such as medical bills). Finally, stress how having a place like this can actually help with cost in the long term by making life better for everyone involved – not just financially but emotionally too!
Don’t Push
To convince a parent who is refusing memory care, you must first understand that they are making the best decision they can with their current knowledge and circumstances.
Don’t push them to do something they don’t want to do or guilt them into doing it. You may have all the right reasons for needing your loved one in memory care, but this approach will shut down communication and cause resentment. Instead of trying to convince your loved one that they need assistance, focus on helping them understand what living independently means as it relates to their current situation while expanding upon the benefits of receiving assistance from trained professionals at home or in an assisted living facility (ALF).
Avoid Getting Angry Or Frustrated With Them.
It is important to remember that they still see the world differently than we do because of their disease.
They may feel embarrassed or ashamed about needing a new living situation, causing them to resist it.
It can also be difficult for them to accept that they need assistance with their daily life tasks, such as cooking or cleaning.
If you have tried everything on this list and still aren’t getting anywhere with your parent, remember: patience and perseverance will pay off!
Talk With Their Doctor
This is the most important step, even if it’s uncomfortable. You should not decide on memory care without talking to your loved one’s doctor and having them explain what kind of care will be provided, how it will work, what to expect during daily life, etc. The doctor can also explain any risks involved in this environment (e.g., falls due to wandering).
Conclusion
Be patient, and try not to take it personally. It can be hard for them to accept that their health is declining, and they might need some time to adjust before they are ready to make changes in their life. Remember that your parent needs you more than ever right now!
