How to Communicate More Effectively with Your Senior Loved Ones

As your loved ones get older, the time will come to have some difficult conversations. Topics like health issues, end-of-life planning, and the possibility of moving to a senior living community can all be hot buttons that lead to arguments. If you want to communicate more effectively with your senior loved ones about these and other difficult subjects, the team at Summerset Senior Living has a few tips to help you.

Don’t Treat Them Like a Child

When you’re speaking with a senior loved one, it’s important to remember that they have lived a long and full life; they deserve just as much respect as anyone else. Just because they’re at a stage in their life where they may need your help with some things doesn’t mean you can treat them like a child. Whatever you’re discussing, be empathetic, respectful, and listen actively. Your loved one’s concerns are valid and speaking to them as an equal can make them more receptive to what you have to say.

Be Prepared

Things can get heated during a difficult conversation and doing your homework ahead of time can ensure you don’t gloss over important information when emotions run high. Do some research before you start talking so you can organize your main points. You can even take some notes so you won’t forget anything you wanted to say. 

Don’t Give Up

If your loved one isn’t ready for a difficult conversation the first time you broach the topic, don’t give up! It’s possible they were having a bad day or that they simply weren’t ready to talk about it. After some reflection, they may be more willing to open up, so circle back around to your conversation as many times as it takes to get your point across. 

Bring in a Third Party

Sometimes, it can be beneficial to enlist the help of a person whom your loved one trusts. If you’re talking about health issues, a trusted doctor may be able to provide some much-needed expertise about the topic at hand. A reputable financial planner can help you discuss issues like retirement planning and end-of-life planning with your loved one. And if you’re talking about moving to a senior living community, speaking with a representative from a well-regarded local community may be able to put some fears to rest.

As we mentioned, speaking to a senior loved one about making the transition to a senior living community is always a difficult conversation. For those who want to retire in the beautiful Sacramento region, Summerset Senior Living has communities in Lincoln, CA and Rancho Cordova, CA with all the amenities to make them feel just like home.

Make our team part of your conversation; all you have to do is call (916) 619-0494 or fill out the online form on our contact page to request more information or to schedule a tour. One of our representatives would be happy to speak with you and your loved ones about all the things that make our communities a great place to retire. Making such a big change in life is never easy, but our team can help you show your loved one what is so great about senior living at Summerset.