How to Talk About Assisted Living

As people age and begin to have more difficulty living at home alone, one topic is often dreaded and avoided more than the others—nursing homes and assisted livings. Or, if they are discussed, it may be in passing, like: “Promise me you won’t ever put me in one of those!” 

While it might not be a very comfortable idea to talk about, it’s important to consider what steps to take when living at home becomes a challenge. 

Remember that your goal in having this conversation is not to have a “one and done” talk and then make a sudden move to a facility. Instead, use our Healthy Conversations Coach to simulate a respectful and effective way to address the concern while keeping the lines of communication open. 

Note: The conversations below address assisted living for a mother, but can be applied to other loved ones in your life as needed.