The holidays are a joyful time for reconnecting with the people who matter most, but sometimes, when adult children go home to visit their aging parents, they notice concerning changes. If you find yourself questioning whether it’s still safe, healthy, or a positive thing that your parents continue to live alone, it’s worth exploring further.
Here are some key signs to watch for this holiday season, along with tips for having a positive, supportive conversation with your parents about making a move that enhances their quality of life and well-being.
- Is their usually tidy home showing signs of neglect, like disrepair or clutter? Are bills piling up or going unpaid? They may be having trouble keeping up with household chores.
- Does their car have new dings or appear unusually dusty? This could signal that driving has become difficult.
- Are they frequently talking about friends who have passed away? This might be a sign of loneliness or social isolation, which can significantly affect their emotional and physical health.
- Ask gentle, open-ended questions like, “Mom, when was the last time you went out to lunch with…?” or “Dad, do you still do poker nights with…?” to gauge their social activity and whether they’re getting out of the house regularly.
- Are all their buttons buttoned? Are their shoelaces untied? Are you seeing signs of less frequent grooming? Your parents might be struggling with some daily tasks and feeling self-conscious about it.
- If you have siblings or cousins visiting from out of town, they may notice changes you haven’t because they’re seeing things with fresh eyes. Their observations can provide valuable insight into what’s happening.
Plan for the Future
If you determine that a change is needed, commit to exploring the best options for your parents in the New Year. Acting proactively, rather than waiting for a crisis, can make the transition smoother and more empowering for everyone involved.
If you visit communities on your own, you can then present your parents with the best of the best. Be there to support them in their choices.
Today’s senior living options offer vibrant, supportive communities where residents thrive socially and physically. These environments combine social opportunities and medical support, leading to improved health, happiness, and longevity.
For example, at The Preserve of Roseville in Roseville, MN, residents enjoy a lifestyle that’s active, engaging, and fun. With friends just steps away and access to activities, dining, and entertainment, the need to drive diminishes, and isolation becomes a thing of the past. Studies show that seniors who are socially active experience lower rates of depression and dementia.
By framing this conversation as an opportunity for greater fulfillment and joy, you can help your parents see the move as a positive step toward enhancing their golden years.
“Many people mistakenly believe that making the move to senior living means giving up independence,” says Kristel Lastine, The Preserve of Roseville’s Executive Director. “But once they move in, they quickly see how our no-maintenance lifestyle helps them maintain their independence. Plus, they also get welcoming neighbors, a bustling activity schedule to enjoy as much or as little as they want, restaurant-style meals, supportive care if needed, and 24-hour access to staff in case of emergencies. I hear it from residents — and their adult children — all the time: ‘This is great. We should have moved in sooner.’”
