Q. My mom is battling dementia, and I think it’s time to consider assisted living. What is the best way to broach the subject with her?
A. This is never an easy thing to do, especially if your loved one is in the early stages of the disease. They can still understand what “assisted living” means and the alleged stigma that accompanies the term.
Some tips to help with this conversation:
- Be transparent and voice your concern to them. They need to know that your motives come from a good place. Our parents can tell if we are trying to deceive them.
- Let them be involved in the choosing process, if they are able. The hardest thing for a loved one battling dementia is the loss of independence. Make them feel as involved in the process as they can be, and even encourage them to have lunch at the community to get a feel for it.
- Be a good listener and listen to their concerns while being sympathetic to their worries.