VISITING ANGELS RHODE ISLAND 401-270-4664
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Signs your Loved One Needs Home Care

Mom and dad might not be in the same health condition as before, whether in a physical or mental capacity. Considering whether a loved one needs home care can be mentally taxing and emotionally draining. Before making this decision a wide range of factors should be taken into account. 

 

While some of the following warning signs might be common sense, considering and weighing each one accordingly is an important step towards making a potentially difficult decision.


  • Whenever a loved one poses a threat to his or her own well being, seek immediate care options.
  • recent hospital discharge can make it difficult for a loved one to undertake his or her usual daily routine.
  • Physical limitations in general can hinder daily activities
  • Loved ones of any age might be in need of home care if they are undergoing rehabilitation
  • Memory lapses can impede daily functions and can even put your loved ones in danger.
  • Loved ones that cannot maintain their lifestyles independently might be in need of assistance.
  • If loved ones are having trouble preparing their own meals, home care should be considered.
  • If your loved one cannot make it through the night unattended, caregiver assistance is necessary.
  • Loved ones who overburden your personal schedule are most likely in need of full-time care.
  • When you've exhausted your own care-giving efforts, it might be time to seek a professional caregiver.

 

Once you've taken these warning signs into consideration, the next step can be even more difficult. Approaching a loved one about the possibility of home care is a touchy subject; one wrought with emotion that forces loved ones to confront their own age-related shortcomings. Remember to broach the subject with sensitivity and care. Your loved ones must feel that their opinions are being considered.

 

Below are a few tips to consider when discussing the option of home care with your loved one.


  • Focus on your loved one during discussions and keep him or her involved.
  • Voice your opinions using "I" statements.
  • Define a clear topic for each discussion.
  • Be assertive, but respectful
  • Keep in mind it may take some time and multiple conversations to come to a consensus.
  • Don't blame others or use "You" statements. 
  • Don't try to accomplish too much in just one discussion. 

 

Consider setting up a family meeting to discuss your concerns, involving everyone that the decision may affect directly. Keep in mind at all times that the decision ultimately belongs to your loved one, and he or she should be a central part of every conversation, Family meetings should be supportive, and everyone who takes part must treat the loved one who needs assistance and his or her opinion with the utmost respect.

When met with resistance, don't push loved ones into meetings or situations that they are uncomfortable with. Continued resistance requires more assertiveness on your part, but make sure to communicate to your loved ones that you want to hold the meeting because you care about them and are concerned about their well-being.

Dealing with resistance is touchy. While your concerns might be significant, listen to your loved one’s concerns as well. If you’re planning a family meeting, meet with the rest of the family beforehand so you can align your thoughts and concerns.

 

Suggested Methods for Dealing with Resistance.


  • Demonstrated why you believe your loved one's health or safety is at risk, then push the discussion forward.
  • Involve others, like clergy, physicians, family, or a generic care manager, so loved ones can have a second, less biased opinion.
  • Use local resources, like Visiting Angel's RI over the phone consultation. We will assess your loved ones condition and need for home care, to ease the process.

 

Remember to keep all discussions with your loved one positive! If they have the mental capacity to make the decision on their own, then they must do so. It is your responsibility to demonstrate your concern first and foremost, not to make the decision for them.

Serving Providence & Bristol Counties and Surrounding Communities

Visiting Angels RHODE ISLAND
224 Taunton Ave
East Providence, RI 02914
Phone: 401-270-4664
Fax: 401-270-4710

Serving Providence & Bristol Counties and Surrounding Communities

Visiting Angels RHODE ISLAND
224 Taunton Ave
East Providence, RI 02914
Phone: 401-270-4664
Fax: 401-270-4710