How to Speak to Your Parents about Independent Living

By: Nora Carr, Communications and Marketing Coordinator

Watching your parents age can be difficult. It can be even more challenging as they struggle to care for themselves or their home. Having a difficult conversation about the next steps and plans for the future is essential. This is critical in finding a living situation that best suits your parents while allowing you peace of mind. Independent living can be an excellent option for your parents and your family.?

Trying to force your parents to move from their home will make a difficult situation even harder and strain family relationships. Presenting independent living options by focusing on what they can gain and the positives may work better than drawing attention to their aging and what they can no longer do for themselves.?

Make it clear that Independent Living is not a Nursing Home. Independent Living allows residents to live in their own apartments, not a hospital room. They can keep their schedule, participate in as many activities as they want, go on outings if they choose, and make their meals or attend meals in dining rooms.?

As people age, they lose friends and become disconnected from their communities because of life changes, mobility issues, etc. With Independent Living, people can find a new community outside their door. If your parents were living alone before, they may enjoy moving to a place with a vibrant and engaging community.?

Independent Living can benefit your parents and yourself by providing peace of mind because your parents live in a safe and secure environment. Independent living communities have front desk staff to answer questions and address concerns. You do not have to worry because your parents can be happy living independently but will have access to immediate help if needed.

If you are interested in a tour of Park Plaza, email: [email protected] call: (773) 465-6700 or visit our website, park-plaza.org for more information