Having ‘The Talk’: How Siblings Can Navigate Assisted Living Conversations
In the journey of discussing assisted living options with aging parents or loved ones, the involvement of siblings or family caregivers can significantly influence the process.
These conversations are often marked by complex emotions, differing viewpoints, and the challenge of making decisions that prioritize the well-being and wishes of the aging loved one.
Being proactive about understanding how additional support will significantly improve a loved one’s quality of life can help establish a path to decisions that are focused on the success of the aging adult.
Gain insights about assisted living conversations, including ways to approach care options with siblings, caregivers and older adults.
Click to listen to this episode:
Tune in for tips and resources from Ken Knudsen, Certified Senior Advisor® and Owner of CarePatrol of South Carolina.
About Ken:
Ken and his wife, Cynthia, launched CarePatrol South Carolina in 2012 and now own multiple offices that cover most of the state. Ken is a Certified Senior Advisor® and spent months learning the landscape of senior living and care in South Carolina before speaking to his first CarePatrol client.
He and his team of senior care professionals have over 150 years of senior care experience and have helped thousands of families navigate the senior care waters, including countless conversations about having “the talk” with their loved ones.
Before CarePatrol, Ken found himself in the same position as many of the families he serves. He and his siblings had to place their mother in a community within days, and they didn’t know where to start. He discovered that it’s a system not easily navigated without advice and direction from professionals, and the short time frame they had, didn’t allow much room for figuring it out on their own. The family was frustrated and overwhelmed, and he decided to find a better way for families in South Carolina to walk through this.
Prior to entering the world of senior living, Ken had an executive-level career in manufacturing, including 25 years of starting new companies. His business background is a great asset to families who need assistance with financial questions, budgeting, and comprehending long-term care policies. Remembering the helplessness his family felt fuels his desire to serve families in similar situations.
Show Notes:
- Navigating sibling or family caregiver conversations if an aging parent or loved one needs extra support
- Suggested “Dos and Don'ts” when discussing senior care options
- Helpful resources to help navigate care options
Episode Resources:
- 20 Signs Your Loved One May Need More Help
- Reactions to Caregiving
- Senior Care Options: Assisted Living
- Assisted Living vs. In-Home Care for Seniors
- Residential Facilities, Assisted Living, and Nursing Homes – National Institute on Aging
