Talking to Your Parent About Elder Care Services
By involving your parent in the decision-making process and listening to their concerns about elder care, you can make the conversation of hiring a caregiver for them less stressful
Hiring a caregiver for an elderly parent is difficult for any family. The biggest challenge is to help your loved one understand that a caregiver is there to assist them, and not to take their independence and privacy. Here are four strategies to talk with your loved one about elder care.
Put Yourself in Their Shoes
We know it can be very hard to watch your lovely parent who took care of you now become reliant on you.
But try to understand your parent's feelings and how scary all this is for them. In addition, questions like “Will I have privacy?” and “Will this caregiver be a good companion?” just keep coming to their mind.
When starting a conversation, be compassionate and caring. Remember that this situation is much harder and stressful for your parent and that you want them to be happy and safe.
It All Starts with the Setting
The conversation about hiring a professional caregiver should be done in person. If you live in another city, you should come home as soon as possible. Next, plan to stay at home for several days. This situation is delicate and you have to be rested. That way, when you start the conversation, you will be mindful and will give your parent compassion and patience they need.
The best place for having this conversation is based on your loved one’s preference and situation. It’s important that the place is comfortable, and cozy.
Let Your Parent Talk First
You want to hire an experienced caregiver because that is how your parent will stay healthy and safe in the comfort of their home. However, they probably don’t share your point of view, which is understandable. The key to a healthy conversation with your parent is to hear what they are saying and understand how they feel about hiring a caregiver.
Write down their thoughts, fears, and doubts and let them know you’re a careful listener. Make eye contact all the time, and don’t interrupt them while they are talking.
After your parent has told you their concerns, start by saying: “I hear what you’re saying…” or “It sounds like you’re worried about…” Now, you should let them know how you feel about elder care services.
Let Your Parent Lead
We know that building a good relationship with elder care provider takes time, effort and dedication. You need to consult with your parent on a regular basis and check how they are dealing with the transition.
In some cases, other members of the family are those who do not like the idea of hiring a caregiver. If that is the case, this article could help you.
Visiting Angels of Woodbridge, CT, is a leading provider of non-medical in home care services for seniors. Our office serves New Haven County, Fairfield County, Westchester County and all five boroughs of New York City, NY. To learn more about the in-home living assistance services provided by our staff of compassionate caregivers, please call our Newington office at (203) 397-6890 or contact us for more information.