What If They Refuse

What If a Parent Refuses to Move

Unfortunately for everyone, this happens more than people expect. It is not surprising at all - no one wants to move! Then you factor in the fact that this may be a long-time home, the memories associated with the home, the fact that it is likely paid off, and the fear of the unknown makes this even more contentious.

Why They Refuse

Quite simply, because it feels like loss. This is a home they’ve lived in for years and made it a home. Even if they didn’t raise a family in the home, it feels as though they did. I have worked with one family in particular who moved into the home when their children moved out; however, the parents babysat their grandchildren daily in the home. Facts like this must be taken into account when hit the moving scenario.

Besides that, there is the element of:

• Control,

• Independence,

• Familiarity

These three things alone are paramount when a parent does not want to leave.

What Doesn’t Work

Think of things that you are not wanting to do…. it might be working overtime or (the dreaded) driving a friend to the airport in Denver-

Who designed that location?

Anything that you do not want to do is usually followed by someone wanting to convince you otherwise. Do any of these things work?

• Pushing.

• Forcing

• Talking down you

What Works

Instead, when someone offers you reasonable requests backed with facts and empathy, you may decide to make the treck out to the airport. It’s not different when speaking to your parents about their home. You would be best to:

• Start the conversation early.

• Asking questions to clarify concerns and giving time for them to accept.

• Showing them that this is in their best interest for, not only, safety, but also for quality of live

Key takeaway:
This is not about convincing — it’s about understanding.