How To Talk To Your Senior Loved One About In Home Care

Consider these four strategies to talking with your parent about in home care services

Many families come to an agreement to hire a professional in home care provider but have a hard time explaining to their loved ones why it is the best possible solution for their needs. Seniors who are reluctant to receive expert care often fear they will completely lose their independence or control over their lives and routine.

Here is how you can help your loved one realize that home care can only improve their quality of life.

Be Compassionate

Your loved one is going through a lot of changes as they age. They may not be able to perform simple daily tasks or engage in activities that made them happy their entire life. For them, coming to terms with their physical and mental decline may be overwhelming.

When you are talking about in home care, it is important to look at things from your loved one’s perspective. They may be scared and worried that care means the end of independence as they know it. They may have concerns about their privacy or whether they will like their caregiver.

That is why it is crucial that you be compassionate as you start the conversation about home care and do your best to introduce them to all the positive aspects of professional care.

Choose the Time & Place Wisely

The conversation about care needs to happen in person. If you live far away from your loved one, you should avoid discussing the topic over the phone. Instead, if possible, fly or drive home for a couple of days and carefully plan for the conversation.

You should choose a day and time that works for you, your loved one, and any other family members who want to be involved. Plan for the conversation to happen when all involved parties have enough time for the discussion and are relaxed and feeling comfortable.

As for the place, ideally, it should be your loved one's home, but it can also be the home of another family member. Just make sure that you do not start the talk about in home care in a public place where your loved one may feel cornered.

Listen to Your Loved One & Let Them Lead

When you introduce your parent to the idea of professional care, it is of vital importance that you give your loved one a chance to say how they feel. Let your parent speak freely and do not interrupt them. It may be a good idea to jot down what they are saying so you could have a better idea of what they expect from in home care.

Once your parent has finished talking, you can address their concerns and explain to them how a professional caregiver can only boost their independence. Tell your loved one that home care concerns the entire family and that you will all be there for them whenever they need you. Show them that you care and that you only want what is best for them.

Keep Communication Open

When you begin planning for care, you should allow your loved one to remain in control of their care. They should be involved in the development of their care plan as much as possible. You want your parent to feel comfortable with their caregiver, so expressing their wishes and requirements is crucial. Once a home care agency knows how they can help your loved one, they can choose a suitable caregiver who will be able to form a bond with your parent.

In home care is the ideal solution for seniors who wish to remain in their homes as they age, but who need some daily assistance to make that a healthy, safe reality. To make sure your loved one enjoys the experience, it is important to start the journey right. With these tips, you can get your parent onboard and on track to a healthier, happier lifestyle at home

Visiting Angels of Gastonia, NC, is a leading provider of non-medical in home care services for seniors. To learn more about the in-home assisted living services provided by our staff of compassionate caregivers, please call our Gastonia office at (704) 825-3350 or contact us for more information.

Visiting Angels proudly serves Alexis, Belmont, Bessemer City, Boiling Springs, Casar, Charlotte, Cherryville, Cramerton, Crouse, Dallas, Earl, Fallston, Gastonia, High Shoals, Iron Station, Kings Mountain, Lattimore, Lawndale, Lincolnton, Lowell, McAdenville, Mooresboro, Polkville, Shelby, Stanley, Vale, Waco, and the surrounding areas of North Carolina.

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