5 Tips for Talking to a Loved One About Moving In With You
As loved ones age, their safety and wellness become a principal concern. From purchasing medical alarms to hiring part-time caretakers, there are many ways to help an aging parent. If you decide to ask them to settle into your home, handle the discussion tactfully. Although approaching the subject may seem a bit daunting, here are a few tips to open the dialogue.
How to Discuss Moving an Elderly Loved One Into Your Home
1. Don’t Rush the Conversation
Convincing a parent to make a major life change is unlikely to happen during a quick exchange. Wait for an opportunity to bring the topic up when you can talk face-to-face without interruption. This conversation demands your full attention.
2. Listen to Their Concerns
You’ll probably encounter some pushback, but instead of dismissing your parent’s concerns, take the time to hear them out. They may fear they’ll lose independence, have to change daily routines, or be a burden. Ease their concerns by coming up with fair solutions.
3. Describe Your Worries
Use the conversation to address your concerns, too. Although a medical alarm ensures access to emergency help, you may be worried about your parent’s overall health. From providing nutritious meals to helping with laundry and errands, moving in together will allow you to ease their workload.
4. Revisit the Topic
If your loved one remains resistant, table the topic. Consider broaching the subject when a sibling can be present to support your points. Invite your parent for an extended stay. After they spend time with you at home, they may see the value of living together.
5. Reach Common Ground
To encourage your parent to warm to the idea, talk about how you would modify your home to fit their needs. For example, you could give them free rein over a spare bathroom and access to your at-home office to quilt and sew. As long as they agree to keep their medical alarm on hand when you’re out, the new arrangement should satisfy everyone involved.
