How to Talk to Your Aging Parents About Memory Care

The conversation surrounding memory care is a dreaded one for most adult children. After all, your parents supported you for so many years, so you might feel afraid to bring up changes in their healthcare now that they’re older. 

The truth, however, is that dementia care requires a lot from the caregivers involved, so if you want to enjoy your relationship with your aging parents and avoid experiencing any burnout, memory care is probably the right step for your family. 

Here are some tips on how to bring up memory care with your elderly parents that will still make them feel supported and loved. 

Pick a Neutral Time 

When it comes to having any difficult conversations, you should find an open slot in your loved one’s schedule. With that being said, don’t wait until you’re on a time crunch to bring up dementia care, and don’t spark the conversation during large family gatherings or public events, either, as doing so could backfire and only heighten your loved one’s negative emotions. 

It’s best to pick a day with nothing too eventful going on and a neutral time of the day, at that. Mealtimes and afternoon visits work well for these difficult talks, as both parties can express their feelings openly and honestly without feeling rushed or humiliated. 

Accept Their Feelings

Your parents will likely feel several emotions when you bring up dementia care, and that is okay. All of their feelings are valid, even if they aren’t necessarily rational. Make sure you verbally validate their feelings as you talk with them about memory care as well. They will feel much better knowing that you understand and accept their emotions instead of trying to get them to change their minds.

Highlight the Positives

Each memory care facility offers unique benefits to your loved ones with memory problems. There are many upsides to such a transition, so try to focus on those instead of the negatives. 

For instance, bring up the different amenities that memory care facilities have, such as recreational sports, group hobbies, and delicious dining options. Keeping your tone lighthearted and positive will let them know that this is a good thing and that they will be getting the support that they need. 

Keep Them Informed: Information Is Power

Knowledge works in everyone’s favor when it comes to choosing a memory care facility. Dementia care includes many different services and opportunities, so the more your loved ones understand what’s coming, the better. 

Keep your parents up-to-date on the facilities you are looking at, and make sure they are aware of what each one will offer them. After all, their opinion is what matters most, and even if they don’t remember these conversations, they are still important. Your parents deserve to feel included and autonomous throughout the memory care process. 

Help Your Loved Ones Transition into High-Quality Memory Care

Memory care is nothing to be ashamed of, regardless of whether you are a caregiver or an aging adult. In this case, the staff of these facilities will understand how to help your 
By following these conversation tips, you’ll help your parents make the proper transition into dementia care.