How Do You Convince a Senior to Go to Assisted Living?

You convince a senior to go to assisted living by being patient, highlighting the benefits and encouraging them to be part of the process. According to data from 2021, 1 in 5 seniors receive assistance with the activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming and medication reminders, and around 18% require additional help.

However, if your loved one could benefit from moving into an assisted living community, starting the conversation and convincing them it’s the best option may not be easy — especially if they’re among the 92% of adults aged 60 to 75 who wish to stay in their own homes as they age.

Overcoming reservations

The most common reservation seniors have about moving into assisted living is the cost. Three-quarters of those who require additional care cite expense as the reason for not getting the support they need. However, for a senior to remain in their own home, they have to modify their home and employ the assistance of a home care agency, both of which are additional expenses.

Adapting a home to accommodate an aging resident costs an average of $3,000 to $15,000 as of 2023. Structural changes and outdoor modifications can push these costs to $50,000 or more.
Although assisted living costs an average of $54,000 per year, it’s 9.6% more affordable than home care and 13.4% less than home health care (data from 2021).

Tips on convincing a senior to go to assisted living

Convincing your loved they should move to assisted living can be difficult, but there are things you can do to help:

Involve other family members: Discuss the options with relatives and ensure you’re all in agreement that assisted living is the best option for your loved one.
Do your homework: Speak with a healthcare professional or research assisted living online so you have all the information on how and why the move will benefit the senior.
Be honest: Explain why you’re concerned for your loved one’s well-being. If you’re unable to provide the assistance they need, tell them why. Present them with different care options to help them understand why assisted living would suit them best.
Be patient: Avoid making your loved one feel pressured. If necessary, have several conversations over time.
Highlight the benefits: In addition to providing 24-hour assistance with personal care, assisted living communities are vibrant social environments that promote independence and bring residents together through fun and engaging activities, events and excursions.

Let seniors take the lead: Your loved one needs to feel in control of their future. Ask about their wants and priorities. Present a variety of options and let them choose what would best suit them.