Holiday Retirement Sheds Light on When It's Time to Consider Senior Living

LAKE OSWEGO, OR--(Marketwired - Feb 2, 2016) - Getting together with family, frequently or infrequently, is a good time to watch for signs that an aging loved one may have reached the point where his or her home is no longer the best option.

Holiday Retirement, a leading senior living provider, offers these signs from around the house that may indicate it is time to discuss senior living options.

1. Piles of forgotten mail can mean bills and financial responsibilities are being neglected.
2. Stale or expired food may signify it is time to offer help with meal preparation and nutrition.
3. Scrapes or dents on the car could indicate that driving skills are deteriorating.
4. Rooms going unused for months on end may be rationale to consider downsizing.
5. Old spills and general uncleanliness may suggest a maintenance-free lifestyle would be more suitable.

As it becomes evident a loved one would likely experience a better quality of life in a retirement community or other senior living option, a series of conversations should be had to ensure both seniors and their families are comfortable with the decisions.

To navigate these tough conversations, Holiday Retirement has produced an e-book to guide adult children through talking to their parents during the five steps of a senior living move, including:

1. Before the conversation: Understanding change in the more general sense.
2. Discussing the topic: Keeping an open mind about all possible options.
3. Touring senior living communities: Lending support throughout the process.
4. Downsizing: Involving the family and exploring the different options.
5. Transitioning to a new beginning: Embracing the final step in this journey.

"While adult children can be on the lookout for crucial signs an aging parent would be much happier and healthier in a senior living community, it's just as important to explore the subject of senior living when their parents are the pillar of health," explains Dorian Mintzer, MSW, PhD, is a licensed psychologist, career/life transition coach and author. "When families don't wait to have these conversations, the subsequent years can actually be much more enjoyable for adult children and their parents. In fact, a parent might flourish in his or her current stage of vitality longer by switching a living situation sooner."

Understanding the other people who may serve as additional support when transitioning to senior living can also be crucial in the process. This infographic highlights five different types of people who can offer their own insight and perspective on a senior living move as adult children explore the series of conversations with aging parents.

"Although opening the door to conversation about a potential move can sometimes be challenging, we have found the adult children of our residents are always happy they did," said Jamison Gosselin, senior vice president of marketing, communications, and resident enrichment for Holiday Retirement. "Having an open dialogue with aging parents during each stage of the moving process results in a happier, more rewarding process for all involved."

About Holiday Retirement
Since 1971, Holiday Retirement has endeavored to provide its signature "Holiday Touch" to residents and their families. Today, Holiday is a trusted name in senior living and provides security, comfort, and value to independent seniors seeking a fulfilling lifestyle. Holiday operates more than 300 retirement communities, making it the second largest senior housing operator in the United States. For more information about Holiday Retirement, please call 800-322-0999 or visit www.holidaytouch.com.