There comes a time for many of us when we have a talk with our loved ones about their living situation. 

Whether you need to find them assisted living or a nursing home, initiating the conversation isn’t always easy - and it’s common to feel guilt. Unfortunately, guilt can increase stress, drain your energy, and cloud your judgment, which can worsen the situation.

Senior Living Expert Lori Williams discusses the red flags you should look for when deciding if it’s time to start the conversation about long-term care. She also outlines 4 reasons people feel guilt when beginning this process with loved ones. While it’s an uncomfortable situation, it’s important to remember you’re not a failure for needing help and for doing what’s safest for them.

Topics discussed:
- Long-term care and senior living
- Assisted living and nursing homes
- How to tell if your loved ones need care
- Dementia / Alzheimer’s
- Caregiver's guilt
- Difficult discussions with seniors
- Resources for senior family members

Takeaways from this episode:
- Change is often hard for those involved, so try easing the process with good communication. Talk to your loved ones about their options and what they’d like in their new home – and talk with the community about your loved one’s needs.
- Your loved one may resist long-term care, but keep in mind if they have a long-term care policy, they had planned for this when they were in the right state of mind.
- Many loved ones feel denial or embarrassment when they’re struggling at home and may resist help for fear of losing independence.
- It’s uncomfortable to feel the role reversal with parents when you’re making decisions about their lives, especially if your parents are private - but it’s still important to handle.
- You’re not a failure for seeking help and providing the care they need. It’s a smart decision that promotes their safety and well-being.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Episode 21: Red Flags:
https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/78dafab1/021-7-red-flags-to-look-for-during-holiday-visits-with-senior-family-members
Episode 5: Senior Housing 101
https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/78876793/005-senior-housing-101

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