Talking about starting elder care with a loved one can feel daunting. In fact, this may be one of the toughest conversations you ever have with a parent. However, by approaching it thoughtfully, you can ensure a positive outcome. Follow these pointers to hold a productive and beneficial discussion on this sensitive topic.
Approach your loved one with empathy.
Reassure your loved one that you’re motivated by concern for them. Explain that you care about their independence and want to help them maintain a high quality of life. Gently bring up specific issues you’ve noticed that are affecting their well-being, like having difficulty with cooking, cleaning, or handling activities of daily living. Be compassionate and patient, staying positive and reminding them you’re acting out of love. Affirm you want to find a solution they’ll feel satisfied with.
Give them a sense of control.
Center your loved one’s needs in the conversation by asking about what matters most to them. Find out if they have specific concerns that elder care could help address. Are they worried about their ability to handle certain day-to-day tasks, remain socially connected, or stay active? Talk about how companion care can enhance their life by supporting these needs. For instance, perhaps a home care aide could help them feel more independent by taking them to the grocery store or going with them on morning walks.
Research options in advance.
You can present the options more clearly when you’ve done your homework ahead of time. By understanding the types of elder care that are available to your loved one, and looking into specific providers, you can present a menu of options. Talk with other family members about these care options prior to the conversation, too.
Weigh the pros and cons together.
Practice inclusive decision-making by discussing the merits of each option together. Explore how each one could support the needs you’ve identified. This will affirm your loved one has a say in the decision. Talk through what a typical day with in-home care could look like, for instance. Make a list of questions that arise during the conversation, so you can look into them later.
Don’t rush the decision.
You don’t necessarily need to make a decision in a single conversation. Rushing this important choice could cause your loved one to feel like they’ve been backed into a corner. Instead, leave time for them to process what you’ve discussed. Then, re-approach the conversation a few days to a week later. Consider having another family member share their own thoughts with your loved one, too.
In-home care can benefit seniors in countless ways, helping to ensure their safety while enhancing independence and quality of life. During your conversation, you can discuss the value of home care as an alternative to an assisted living facility.
To talk about how elder care can benefit your loved one and family, schedule a free nurse consultation call. This can help you prepare for the conversation or better understand your options after you’ve opened the discussion.
