Seniors sometimes do not realize their need for assistance until dangers arise. Presenting someone with an assisted living option occasionally seems a daunting task. When elderly parents are in denial regarding their ability to care for themselves, children need to take action and know how to approach the situation. 

Reasons Elderly Parents May Be in Denial Regarding Their Need for Help

If children find their parents are denying their need for help, or even experiencing feelings of resentment, there could be underlying causes. It is essential children realize the possibilities so they can better help their parents realize their need for assisted living homes. The following are some of the possible reasons an elderly person may be in denial. 

  • Pride is one of the most common reasons a person may be unwilling to admit they need help. Prideful people usually will not admit they need help and may never ask for it from family or friends. Elderly people may still view themselves as capable because they do not want to admit they are getting older and finding day-to-day tasks too difficult. 
  • Older adults may also feel embarrassed to admit they need daily help. They may realize they need care for seniors but remain unwilling to ask for it because they do not want to appear weak or helpless. 
  • Many elderly adults are also in denial about their needs because of fear. As they grow older, seniors may begin worrying about their health and the end of their lives. Often, older adults begin to worry about suffering or being alone. Residing in a senior living community can be life-changing. 
  • Many seniors suffer from depression because they no longer have a feeling of purpose and may not have the socialization opportunities they once did. If an elderly parent suddenly stops smiling, seems withdrawn, or appears sad, they may need help from an assisted living community in Walnut Creek, CA. 

What Are the Best Ways to Support an Elderly Parent in Denial?

When presenting the possibilities regarding assisted living homes, adult children often begin to struggle. When seniors are in denial, the conversations about moving to a community can become argumentative and destructive. There are ways adult children can offer support to parents in denial without causing them to regress further into this state of mind. 

  • Having difficult conversations with aging parents is not easy. It is essential children approach the conversation at the right time. Sometimes, it is best to let the conversation go and come back to it at another time. Do not ignore the subject entirely, but do not push too hard and make the parent reject the idea. 
  • Do not focus on the past or belittle elderly parents. Be mindful of how to approach them. Be honest and focus on the present. Focusing on the past or the future can make a person feel ill at ease. 
  • Children and other loved ones should be honest and let the seniors know their concerns. Focus on the senior’s health and how the community will provide protection. Offer options so the elderly person does not feel like they are being forced into a decision they do not want to make. 
  • Talk with other siblings and family members before approaching the conversation. It is critical that everyone is on the same page. If everyone is in agreement, the elderly parent is more likely to feel at ease over the prospect of moving into a community. 

Get Outside Support

Often, elderly parents have their reasons for being in denial. Sometimes, grown children are simply too close to the situation to bring about an effective solution. Getting outside help is sometimes warranted. Involve the elderly parent’s trusted doctor, a pastor, or other family members. 

Getting support from others can aid children to approach the subject of living in communities without so much stress. The more support the children and their elderly parents have, the better the outcome of the conversation. 

Assisted Living Opportunities Abound

Before approaching an aging parent with the prospect of these communities, children need to carry out research. Learning as much as possible about the options will assist children in helping their aging parents get beneficial living assistance. By doing their homework first, they can provide multiple options and answer any questions their parents may have.

Choosing the Best Option 

Here at Tiffany Court Assisted Living, we are committed to providing residents with a safe and supportive environment that fosters sound mental, physical, and emotional health. Located in Walnut Creek, California, Tiffany Court offers pet therapy, restaurant-style dining, an expansive library, and walking paths for our residents.