Senior Living Family Resources
We really do get it. The prospect of talking with an aging parent or loved one about making the move to senior living can be daunting. Even though we know Terova is a great place to live, we understand that change can be a challenge. Here are some helpful resources and tips to help you ease into the conversation and navigate the decision-making process.
5 Things to Do Before Having “The Talk” With Your Parents
Before you talk to your loved one about moving into a senior living community, ensure you are all on the same page so you can present a united front to your loved one.
Do your research before you broach the subject. Compile the costs, services, levels of care, and amenities offered at different communities and create an easy reference for yourself. Having this knowledge at your fingertips can help you answer their questions and counter any objections they may have.
Determine what kind of community and level of care is right for them. During your search, consider the culture and social atmosphere at each location. You’ll want to find a community where your loved one will feel comfortable, in addition to finding one that meets their health and care needs.
Do your best to get a handle on your loved one’s financial picture. Look into what types of benefits your loved one has or is entitled to, including VA benefits, long-term care insurance, or Medicare/Medicaid. Does your loved one need to adjust their investments to access funds? You may need to consult a tax advisor or other financial professional to review assets and estate-planning strategies.
Consult with your loved one or their health care provider to get a clear picture of their health. Understand the potential prognosis for progressive conditions and their risk factors for future health issues. No one knows what the future holds, but understanding your loved one’s current health, can help you plan for the right care for the future.
Tips to Get the Conversation Started
You’ve done your research and you’re ready to talk about plans for the future, but there never seems to be a good time.
“You’re doing really well! I want you to continue to enjoy life, so let’s talk about the future.”
Why? It’s better to start talking about it while they’re healthy and can enjoy community life, before a health problem forces a hasty decision. Once residents move in, they often say they wish they’d made the decision sooner.
“I know you would never want me to worry or be burdened if anything happens to you.”
Why? Parents above all want their family to be happy. Consider framing it as a way they can ensure you’ll never have to worry or make difficult choices on their behalf. Make the move now, while everyone can be a part of the decision.
“Have you considered the real costs of staying at home?”
Why? Staying at home, which is a known cost to your loved one, will often appear to be the most cost effective. But when you compare the real costs of maintenance, upkeep, property taxes, unexpected repairs, gym memberships, and health care – the move to a senior living community can be very attractive. There can also be financial advantages and asset protection for certain kinds of contracts.
“Let’s schedule a time to talk to someone who lives at Terova, so you can get the real scoop from someone who lives there.”
Why? No one is a better advocate for moving to Terova than someone who’s been through the same process. It gives your parent or loved one a chance to ask questions only a peer can answer and hear first-hand how wonderful daily life at Terova can be.
Call (262) 478-1500 to schedule a consultation or visit with a current resident.
When is the Right Time for Assisted Living?
It’s not always easy to know when your loved ones need extra help. Here are some signs that it might be time to consider Assisted Living:
It’s becoming harder for them to climb stairs, do housework, prepare meals, manage finances, or maintain their home.
They’re relying on others to get to medical appointments, running errands, and shopping for groceries.
They’re feeling lonely or isolated after the loss of a spouse or loved one. Or friends and family members have moved away.
They have been diagnosed with a chronic or progressive condition, such as cancer, congestive heart failure, diabetes, dementia, or Parkinson’s disease, which may make living independently more difficult over time.
A current health condition has worsened, making independent living more challenging.
They need help with basic activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and taking prescribed medications.
Their nearest family member lives miles away and you have concerns about their safety.
If you think it might be time for assisted living, Terova provides a beautiful environment and round-the-clock care you can rely on.
We’re here to help you navigate the decision-making process.
Call (262) 478-1500 to talk to a representative today.