No child wants to have a conversation about their parent moving out. However, in some cases, you may need to discuss this weighty matter. There are some ways, though, to make the process of helping your parent choose independent living to go more smoothly. First, learn more about this housing option. Next, use the information to help convince your parent that it is a good choice.
What Is Independent Living?
Independent living communities refer to locations that allow active adults over 55 to live on their own with others of their age. Included under the umbrella of independent living communities are some of the following:
- Apartment housing for those 55 and up: Apartments that only cater to those over a specific age.
- Retirement homes or communities: Communities made of homes rented or owned by only those over a given age. Homes may be townhomes, duplexes, single-family homes, mobile homes, or condominiums.
- Continuing care retirement communities (CCRC): These facilities offer a range of support for those who may need assistance in the future but currently can live independently.
When helping your parent to choose independent living, make sure that you know the options available to them. Also, being able to answer any questions they have will help them to find the best place to live in their golden years.
Tips for Helping Your Parent Choose Independent Living
While you cannot force your parent to move into an active adult community, you can explain the benefits of such a lifestyle. Additionally, by explaining the types of choices available, you can help your parent to select a community where they will feel comfortable and thrive in.
1. Discuss Why a Move May Help
First, recognize why your parent may prefer independent living. For instance, if they live with you, are you making major changes that could require them to leave? Are you looking to downsize your living space or move across the country? These situations will make living in an active senior community easier for your parent, especially if they don’t want to move.
Perhaps your parent currently lives in their home and wants to sell it to move to an apartment. Taking care of a large house can become difficult for your parent as they age. Selling their home and moving to a smaller place may make them more comfortable.
Another reason your loved one may want to move into independent living is the recent loss of a spouse. For some people, moving into a new space can help them to build new friendships and learn to continue life without their spouse.
2. Identify the Type of Care Your Parent Needs
Second, consider your parent’s health. If your parent is currently healthy and does not have any chronic physical problems, they may find a retirement home or senior apartment complex an ideal option. Therefore, those who feel capable of caring for themselves without additional support can do well in many types of independent living communities.
However, for adults who have a diagnosis of a condition that could impact their long-term health, a CCRC may be better. These facilities offer the spectrum of care that your parent may need as their health changes.
Real Estate Service for Helping Your Parent Choose Independent Living
If you and your parent choose independent living, contact us at S3Living by calling us at 833.405.0263. We offer a myriad of real estate services for active adults who want to live in an independent living situation. If you need help with moving and relocating, we can do that, too. Life doesn’t stop at 55. Helping your parent choose independent living can help them to live their life to the fullest.
