Years ago, your parents might have said something along the lines of “Promise you’ll never put me in a nursing home!” Of course, it might have been said as a joke, and you probably haven’t given much thought to this situation.

But as your parents have gotten older, maybe now it’s time for them to downsize to a smaller living space, or you’ve noticed they might benefit from extra assistance with daily tasks. However, it can be challenging to know how to overcome those jokes and stereotypes about senior care and help them manage their reluctance to this change.

At HarborChase of Long Grove, a luxury senior living community in Long Grove, Illinois, we are constantly redefining senior living and celebrating every day! Our commitment to first-class hospitality, excellent care, and resort-style amenities are what puts our HarborChase communities above the rest.

To help you navigate your family’s senior living journey, our team at HarborChase of Long Grove is sharing how to manage a parent’s reluctance to senior living and help them embrace this next chapter of life.

Put Yourself in Your Parent’s Shoes

For many older adults, their generation has a specific stigma associated with senior living, often using terms like “old folks homes.” Before the expansion of Medicare in the mid-1960s, senior living looked very different from today’s luxurious, active communities.

In fact, in 1974, the U.S. Special Committee on Aging published a report that proclaimed a huge failure on the part of elder care in America, citing the “dread and despair” of housing. In particular, the committee noted ageist attitudes that were permeating the culture of the times, as well as a lack of responsibility on the part of public policies put in place surrounding care ideals.

Due to these findings, the generations of this era have likely harbored these stigmas and assumed that senior living consists of inadequate care, lackluster environments, and bland menu items.

When attempting to understand the reasoning behind your parent’s reluctance to senior living, it’s important to find out where their concerns stem from. The reality of today’s senior living communities varies greatly from senior care of the past. Luxury senior living communities, like HarborChase of Long Grove, offer supportive care, first-rate hospitality and services, elevated dining, and beautiful common areas to promote physical and mental wellness.

On the other hand, perhaps their reluctance is due to the fact that they don’t feel they need assistance or support. In this case, it’s important to be respectful yet honest as you discuss senior living. For example, if they say, “I don’t need help; I can take care of myself.” respond with something that pulls from their reality.

• “I know you can take care of yourself, but wouldn’t it be nice not to have to mow the lawn?”
• Or, “You’re always saying how hard it is going up and down the stairs; a smaller place might be easier for you to get around.”

Provide Encouragement and Support

Assure your parent that you will be there for them every step of the way as you navigate senior living and care options. Arrange tours at different communities and attend them together so everyone involved can ask questions and be on the same page. When possible, find community events you can attend so your parent can get a feel for the atmosphere and potentially meet residents and associates.

Moving to a luxury senior living community means having access to more than just care and support. Events, wellness programs, learning opportunities, clubs, community amenities, dining venues, and more combine to enhance the lives of senior living residents.

At HarborChase of Long Grove, our senior living community in Long Grove, Illinois, we are redefining retirement living and providing education and information to challenge the stigmas surrounding senior housing. We’re dedicated to ensuring residents can spend their days in a beautiful atmosphere that promotes purposeful, active living, and connection.

In addition, the surrounding community of Long Grove promises adventure and fulfillment at every corner, with nearby popular attractions like the Arlington Park race track, Valentino Vineyards, and the historic Mariott Theatre.

We invite you to visit our website to learn more and schedule your tour of our luxury senior living community in Long Grove, Illinois.