Supporting your parents in senior living can bring up a range of emotions. You may feel relief, concern, guilt, or uncertainty about how to best support them. Transitioning into a senior living community takes time, patience, and thoughtful involvement. This post will outline specific actions to improve your parents’ experience and others that may unintentionally cause harm.
7 Dos and Don’ts for Supporting Your Parent in Senior Living
1. Be Present and Consistent (But Don’t Overdo It)
Plan regular visits or calls at times that work for your parent. A steady rhythm of communication shows care and consideration. Choose times that align with their daily routine and allow space for rest or social activities.
Dropping by unannounced or visiting too often can interfere with their schedule or overwhelm them, especially if they are still adjusting.
2. Encourage Engagement and Connection
Suggest community events or activities that match your parents’ interests. Gentle encouragement can help them explore new friendships and feel more connected to others around them.
Avoid pressuring them to join every activity or pushing them into social settings they dislike. Respect their need for quiet time or familiar routines.
3. Respect Independence and Choices
Support your parents’ ability to make daily decisions. Let them choose how they want to spend their time. Allow them to complete tasks they can still handle.
Taking control of their routine or personal space without reason can reduce their confidence and autonomy.
4. Listen Actively and Validate
Give your parents your full attention and listen actively when they share concerns. Even small issues may carry emotional weight. Acknowledge their feelings and ask questions to better understand what they need.
Jumping to solutions without listening fully can feel invalidating. Avoid brushing off their worries or trying to fix things too quickly.
5. Advocate for Needs and Preferences
Speak up for your parents’ comfort and well-being when needed. Respectfully share their preferences with staff and follow up as appropriate. Good communication benefits everyone.
Constant criticism or an aggressive tone can make collaboration harder. Avoid making assumptions without discussing the issue with your parent or the team.
6. Avoid Taking Over or Assuming
Involve your parents in decisions about their care and lifestyle. Partner with the care team to ensure your parents’ voice stays central.
Making choices on their behalf without input can lead to frustration and feelings of being excluded.
7. Refrain from Focusing Only on Negatives
Recognize your parents’ concerns, but also highlight positive experiences. Reinforcing benefits like safety, social connection, or reduced stress can help with long-term adjustment.
Focusing only on complaints can heighten anxiety and lower morale. Be mindful of your tone and focus when talking with your parent about their day-to-day life.
Are You Helping in a Way That Truly Supports Their Well-Being?
Effectively supporting your parent in senior living requires understanding what helps them thrive and what can unintentionally hinder their adjustment. Your involvement should uplift, not overshadow, their autonomy, preferences, and emotional health.
Choose to be a source of support that empowers your parent in their new environment. Focus on what helps them feel comfortable, respected, and connected. Your parent has the best chance to thrive when that support meets the right community.
Explore how Mountain Side Senior Living creates an environment where older adults and families feel heard, supported, and valued. Contact us or schedule a tour today to learn more.
