What you should consider when your parents need extra support

(NC) As their grown child, having your parents reach a stage when they need your help can be a big change for the whole family. Like with any major change, discussing and preparing in advance can make all the difference. When planning for a conversation around your parents’ independence here are two important things to consider:

Everyone needs help sometimes. As your parents age, some things may start to become more difficult or time-consuming. A task like going for groceries or to the bank may become an all-day project. As you step in to help more, it’s possible to step into the role of caregiver without you or your parent realizing.

It can be useful for you and your parents to regularly touch base on what they enjoy doing as well as what feels difficult. Retirement living is one option that can help by taking care of those tasks that are becoming harder. This can help your parent stay independent and focused on what they find meaningful to them.

What are your parents’ goals? If a decision requires a senior to move to a more supportive environment, such as a retirement community, it’s possible to lose sight of what your parents value and want to accomplish. That’s why it’s important to check to make sure that what makes them happiest is at the centre of any plans your family makes.

“Whether it’s independence, having a sense of community, enjoying privacy or keeping a beloved pet, understanding what matters most to the person should guide every decision,” explains Charlene Dawes, director, clinical services at Aspira Retirement Living. “Moving to a retirement community isn’t about giving up the life you enjoy, but rather gaining the support that helps you continue living it.”

One way to continue the conversation productively is to help your parents experience the possibilities firsthand. You can tour a retirement community together, stay for a meal, attend an event or consider a short stay. Seeing daily life in action can help relieve uncertainty and show that having the right support can help them continue living life on their own terms. Learn more about retirement living options at aspiralife.ca.