Last Updated on May 21, 2019
There comes a time in many elderly people’s’ lives where it is time to make the decision to go into assisted living, have an in-home caregiver, or in some circumstances, remain living on their own. Seniors, understandably, often have much reticence about entering into assisted living facilities, and it may be near impossible to assuage their fears.
Read on to learn about what to do when an elderly parent refuses to move, and how you can help make the situation easier and solve the crisis.
Why Does an Elderly Parent Refuse to Move?
Seniors usually have reasons for not wanting to make the change, which leaves their children frustrated and wondering how to get parents into assisted living without being forceful. Some of the top reasons an elderly parent refuses to move includes:
- They are comfortable with their routine and their life
- They are afraid they won’t know anyone
- They do not want strangers taking care of them
- They do not want to lose their independence
- They do not want to lose their homes
These are all really good reasons why a parent refuses to go to assisted living. However, finding the right facility and introducing your parent to it, can make a big difference when it comes to how to convince elderly parents to move. First of all, it’s best to validate your parent’s feelings when a parent refuses to go to a nursing home. Find a place that you think will suit their needs best, and also get a list of all activities and other information about the establishment before you present it.
Options for What to Do When an Elderly Parent Refuses to Move
Other than learning more about the facilities and trying to assuage your parent’s negative feelings when mom or dad refuses to go to assisted living, there are several more things to consider. Try options such as:
- Involving mom or dad in the search. They may feel that they’re not completely losing their independence if they have a big part in the decision-making process.
- Consult a geriatric manager or counselor. Likely there is one on staff at the facilities you’re perusing, but when it comes to what to do when an elderly parent refuses to move, these counselors have years of experience.
- Go over all of the senior’s finances with them and discuss with them what makes the best sense.
- Ask other close friends and family members for input. You don’t want an “intervention-like” situation, but the input of other close friends and family can help tip the scales when an elderly parent refuses to move.
The Final Decision When an Elderly Parent Refuses to Move
Unless your parent is in danger of hurting themselves or others, you cannot force them to move. At the end of the day, you may have no recourse when your parent refuses to go to a nursing home, other than stand by their decision. It’s completely okay to explore other options. In-home health services are widely available and are usually covered by most types of insurances. If your parent has a documented disability, you may be able to get respite care. You may also be able to make in-home accommodations to make their home more comfortable for aging in place. Make sure that you listen to your parent’s concerns. Sometimes the best thing to do when an elderly parent refuses to move is simply listen.
For more information on in-home accommodations, and other mobility products that can help, such as wheelchair ramps and stair lifts, contact Williams Lift Co. today to help your elderly parent live their best life.