1. Aging Parents: Consider Senior
Housing Options Before a Crisis

2. Delicate Conversations
• Mom or Dad may insist they’re not moving
• Initiate the sometimes delicate and often difficult discussion
• Best time to evaluate options is before a crisis occurs
• Parent can participate in the evaluation and decision-making
process in relation to the merits of independent or assisted
living

3. When and How to Broach the Conversation
• Eldercare specialist Stella Henry, R.N., author of The Eldercare
Handbook:
– Many seniors are unrealistic about their ability to maintain their
homes
– Prefer to avoid all discussion about the inevitabilities of aging
– 95% of her clients come to her in crisis situations
– Results in a confused elder, disorganized children and a family in
chaos
– Talk with care and sincerity
– Gently suggest a visit to a friend who has made the transition
– Have lunch at a nearby facility
– Back off but don’t give up in the face of resistance
– Call ahead for an appointment with the administrator or social worker
– Visit during mealtime or during an activity

4. Form a Team
• Present a united front
• Enlist the help of respected physicians and counselors
• Professionals can underscore family’s concerns
• Help senior envision different scenarios or present the
benefits
• Who is best to serve as durable power of attorney for critical
healthcare decisions?

5. All’s Well That Ends Well
• Once the move is made the elder is usually safer and happier
• It takes courage and determination
• Children are rewarded when they see a parent flourishing in a
new environment

6. SeniorHomes.com
• Information in this presentation provided by
senior care writer Leslee Jaquette
• SeniorHomes.com is a free resource for
seniors and families searching for housing and
care services
• Visit http://www.seniorhomes.com for more
information on senior housing

7. SeniorHomes.com
• Information in this presentation provided by
senior care writer Leslee Jaquette
• SeniorHomes.com is a free resource for
seniors and families searching for housing and
care services
• Visit http://www.seniorhomes.com for more
information on senior housing