Your helpful guide for the tough decision

15 Gentle Tips for Talking to a Loved One About Moving Into a Care Home

Start the Conversation Early
Begin discussions before a crisis occurs. This allows time for thoughtful decisions without added stress.
Determine Who Your Stakeholders Are
Include trusted family, healthcare providers, or caregivers who know your loved one well and can support the conversation with care and clarity.
Do Your Homework
Learn about care homes, daily routines, and the services available so you can answer questions and provide reassurance.
Choose the Right Time and Setting
Have the conversation in a calm, familiar, and quiet space. Timing and surroundings make a big difference in comfort and understanding.
Be Honest, Gentle, and Reassuring
Speak with warmth and patience. Be clear, but avoid overwhelming them with too much information at once.
Let Them Know You’re On Their Side
Remind them that you’re doing this with them, not to them — and that your goal is to keep them safe, supported, and cared for.
Accept Them As They Are Today
Meet them where they are, emotionally and mentally. Avoid correcting or arguing — instead, focus on comfort and connection.
Stay Open and Positive
Emphasize the benefits: more help, more activities, more peace of mind. A hopeful tone goes a long way.
Involve Them in the Process (as much as possible)
Offer simple choices and include them in small decisions, like selecting a favorite item to bring or viewing photos of the home.
Use “I” Statements
Say things like “I worry when I can’t be there to help” to express concern without making them feel at fault.
Maintain Clear Boundaries
It’s okay to acknowledge your own limits. Let them know you love them, but also need help to ensure they receive the best care.
Focus on Love and Support
Make it clear that this decision comes from love, not obligation. Affirm their value and dignity every step of the way.
Bring in Familiar and Trusted Support
If helpful, ask a doctor, faith leader, or long-time friend to offer gentle support or guidance.
Take Your Time
Change can be hard. You may need to revisit the conversation several times — and that’s okay.
Be Patient and Listen Carefully
Even if the words don’t come easily, listen with your heart. Often, it’s not about fixing things, but simply being present.

Know the difference, and what your loved one needs!

Maple Manor Christian Home is a Long Term Care facility, we do not offer assisted living or memory care.

Assisted Living

Assisted living is designed for individuals who can still live somewhat independently but need help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, medication management, or meal preparation. Residents live in private or semi-private rooms, have access to social activities, and receive support based on their individual needs. It’s a great option for those who need a little extra help but want to maintain as much independence as possible.

Long Term Care

Long-term care, often referred to as skilled nursing, is for individuals who require 24/7 medical attention and daily support with most or all personal care tasks. This level of care is best suited for those with chronic health conditions, physical disabilities, or recovering from illness or surgery. Care is provided by licensed nurses and medical professionals, and services often include rehabilitation, wound care, and complex medication management.

Memory Care

Memory care is specialized care for individuals experiencing memory loss, confusion, or cognitive decline. These units are secure and thoughtfully designed to support residents who may have trouble with orientation, safety awareness, or communication. Staff are specially trained to provide compassionate, structured support with a focus on routines, familiar environments, and personalized care plans.

Assess the present, is it time for extra support?

Take a moment to look at your loved one’s current situation. Are they able to cook for themselves? Keep their home clean? Manage personal hygiene and daily tasks on their own?

If the answer to any of these questions is no, it’s important to ask yourself:

Is this something I — or another family member — can realistically manage long-term?
Or is it time to seek professional help to ensure their safety and well-being?

This isn’t an easy decision, and that’s okay. Use the worksheet below as a tool to assess their daily needs, and help guide your next steps with confidence and care.

Worksheet