Transition Tips for a Loved One

4 WAYS TO HELP YOUR LOVED ONE TRANSITION

Learn how to help your parents or loved ones make the move to independent retirement living.

Transitioning to independent retirement living is an exciting time – there are countless new neighbors to meet and activities to explore – but it also represents a major life change for most people. As a family member or close friend, that’s where you come in. By being there for your parent(s) or other loved one(s), you can help ensure that their life change is a positive one by being a supportive, educated advocate for them.

If your loved one is considering their retirement living options – or you think it’s time they start – try following these four simple steps for a healthy transition:

Don't wait - start talking now.

It’s never too soon to start the conversation. If your parent or loved one hasn’t brought it up yet, maybe it’s time you raise the subject – you might be surprised that they’re thinking about it already. In fact, according to a recent study from the AARP, more than half of “baby boomer” women over age 45 had already begun thinking about their own retirement living needs* – even though many of these women were still far from retirement age.

Trying to start the conversation with your parent, but aren’t sure how they’ll react? Consider talking with others in the family for support and insight, especially any family members that have already moved to retirement living.

Whatever you do, remember that moving to an independent living community is a decision your loved one needs to make for him or herself – and it can take time to reach the right choice.

*“Are Americans Talking with Their Parents About Independent Living: A 2007 Study Among Boomer Women,” (AARP, 2007)
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Be patient and positive

You want what’s best for your loved ones – but what’s best in retirement is dependent on their needs, not yours. Remember to be patient and listen to their wants, needs and feelings about retirement. Be warm and enthusiastic about their options, and let them determine what retirement lifestyle suits them best – after all, they’re the ones who’ll be living there!

By keeping a positive outlook – and empowering your loved ones to research and make their own decisions – you’ll help them feel more comfortable with their choices
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Plan for the future

Before your loved one makes a decision, ask questions about the community’s ability to deal with the changing needs of its residents. What happens if your loved one’s needs change? You don’t have to have all the answers, but by considering future scenarios, you can help your family better prepare today.

Financial planning is also key to your loved one’s happiness in retirement. Not only should you support your loved one in determining their budget and making smart money decisions now, but you should also consider whether your loved one will need financial help from you – and how much you can afford.

If you will be part of the financial picture for your loved one, talk openly and often about who will pay for what, and make sure all parties are comfortable with the arrangement. By discussing the specifics now, you’ll avoid any tension or miscommunication over the topic later
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Seek support

Transitioning can be a big change for children and loved ones, too! If you need support, don’t be afraid to reach out to friends or loved ones who have gone through this experience before, or consider joining a support group. If you get overwhelmed, stop, breathe and remember: you’re doing the best you can – and you’re doing it because you care.

Ready to help your loved one take the next step? Holiday Retirement is here to help. Take a look at some of our other resources in our Retirement 101 section, or contact us for help in finding the right community for your needs
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