I am referring to “the talk” with your parents about the need for, and selection of, an appropriate nursing home or assisted living facility.
The time for “the talk” comes at different points for different families. Sometimes the need for “the talk” comes after the death of one parent leaving the more dependent parent alone. Sometimes the need for “the talk” arises after a hospitalization for a serious illness, surgery, or injury.
As the instigator of “the talk,” you better know the differences between independent living, assisted living, and nursing homes. You better know what type of care is provided by each and at what cost. Finally, you better know the difference between the good facilities and the average to poor facilities…and what factors make a facility “good” or “poor.”
The Wall Street Journal published a great article on these issues and is a must read. Lauren and I have also published a book for Virginia residents (free upon request) which provides even more details and information. Take a look at, “A Consumer’s Guide to Long Term Care Choices in Virginia.”