Separating Yourself from the Guilt of Putting Your Parent in an Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing Facility in Rhode Island
Coping Tips from our Experienced Caregivers
Feeling guilty about moving your parent to an assisted living or skilled nursing facility in Rhode Island? While it is a perfectly normal response, guilt can be quite overwhelming if your parent shows initial resistance to the move or has adjustment problems. One of the most difficult decisions is coming to terms with the fact that it is in their best interests to move them especially when safety is a factor.
If you are struggling with the guilt and decision to put your loved one in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility in Rhode Island, here are some ways to help.
- Realize that you are not the cause of their debilitating health or mobility issues.
- Understand that it has come to the point where professional care is critical to the health, safety and well-being of your parent.
- Recognize that guilt can cause anger and resentment, both at yourself as well as others in order to justify your actions, which can affect your other relationships.
- Evaluate the reasons for your guilt—religious beliefs, family pressure, social approval, something your parent may have said, your own expectations of perfection, etc.
- Acknowledge the benefits of moving mom or dad to a skilled nursing or assisted living facility. 24/7 monitoring, supervision, nursing care, onsite medical facilities are some of the key advantages.
- Focus on more positive outcomes, such as spending more time with them in the facility.
- Find small ways to express your love and affection, such as taking them a treat, book, a new blanket, magazines, or flowers, etc. when you visit.
- Recognize that you are also adjusting to the fact that you will no longer be the primary caregiver and that it will take time to adapt.
- Learn to let go; realize that every situation is not within your control and that you have done your best and will continue to be mom or dad’s friend and caregiver but in a different way.
- Talk to a friend, colleague or family member who has been in a similar situation.
At The Holiday retirement communities, we treat your parent like our own. You can count on us to provide personalized, high-quality care, whether you move mom or dad to our assisted living facility in Woonsocket or skilled nursing and rehabilitation center in Manville, Rhode Island. Customized care plans and a wide range of activities make our residents feel totally at home.
Give us a call at 860-233-8208 to learn more about the services and amenities we provide at our assisted living and skilled nursing facilities in Rhode Island. Fill out our online form to book a tour.