One of the Biggest Mistakes Families Make When Considering Assisted Living
By Marty O’Connor, President & CEO, Home Again Assisted Living
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to meet with hundreds of families as they consider assisted living for someone they love. One thing I’ve noticed is that many families don’t move too early. They wait too long.
It is completely understandable.
No one wants to feel like they are taking away a parent’s independence. Most families hope that one more month or one more year at home will be the right answer. They want to respect their loved one’s wishes and avoid making a difficult decision before it becomes necessary.
The challenge is that waiting often means making the decision during a crisis instead of making it with a plan.
I can’t count how many conversations have started after a fall, a hospitalization, or a medical emergency. Families suddenly find themselves trying to choose a community while managing doctors, insurance, rehabilitation, and an overwhelming amount of emotion. It becomes a stressful process at a time when everyone is already exhausted.
The best moves into assisted living usually look very different.
The resident is able to participate in the decision. They have time to tour communities, meet the staff, ask questions, and become comfortable with their new surroundings. Instead of feeling like life is happening to them, they remain part of the process.
There is another benefit that people don’t always consider.
Residents who move while they are still relatively active often adjust more quickly. They make friends sooner, participate in activities, enjoy meals with neighbors, and become part of the community before their health begins to decline.
That social connection matters.
Loneliness and isolation can have a tremendous impact on both physical and mental health. Simply being around other people every day, sharing meals, having conversations, and participating in activities often improves a person’s quality of life far more than families expect.
Many people also discover that assisted living actually gives them more independence, not less.
They no longer have to worry about cooking every meal, keeping up with the house, remembering medications, or arranging transportation. Instead, they can spend their time doing the things they enjoy while knowing help is available if they need it.
One of my favorite moments is hearing a family tell me, “We wish we had done this sooner.”
I hear that far more often than I hear someone say they moved too early.
That doesn’t mean assisted living is the right choice for everyone today. Every family is different, and every situation deserves thoughtful consideration. But I do encourage families to begin the conversation earlier than they think they need to.
Visit communities before there is an immediate need. Ask questions. Learn about your options. Build relationships with the people who may one day be caring for your loved one.
Even if the timing isn’t right today, you’ll be far better prepared when the time does come.
At Home Again, we never want families to feel pressured into making a decision. Our role is simply to provide information, answer questions honestly, and help families understand what options are available.
The right time to explore assisted living is usually before you need it.
When families have the opportunity to make a thoughtful decision instead of a rushed one, everyone benefits.
About the Author
Marty O’Connor is the President and CEO of Home Again Assisted Living, a locally owned organization serving older adults throughout south central Wisconsin. As one of the owners of Home Again, Marty remains actively involved in the day to day operations of each community, working closely with residents, families, and employees rather than leading from a distance.
Over the years, he has helped guide Home Again’s growth while staying true to the company’s founding belief that every resident deserves exceptional care, meaningful relationships, and a place that truly feels like home. Marty is passionate about supporting families through one of life’s most important decisions and believes that local ownership, experienced leadership, and compassionate caregivers make all the difference.
Through these articles, Marty shares insights gained from years of working alongside residents, families, nurses, and caregivers with the hope of helping others make informed, confident decisions about senior living.
