Talking to a senior parent about elder care services doesn’t have to be awkward or uncomfortable. Even though many adult children who are taking care of a senior parent are hesitant to talk about it, your mom or dad may need elder care.
If you have noticed that your mom or dad is struggling to keep up with housework, or if they are having trouble with things like shopping, taking their medications on time, or getting dressed they need elder care. Also, if your mom or dad is recovering at home from an accident or illness they need elder care at home.
The conversation about getting elder care doesn’t have to be difficult if you approach the subject kindly and in a way that isn’t dictating to them that it’s time for some help.
Use these tips to have an open, honest, and productive conversation with your mom or dad about getting elder care so they can continue to live at home:
Choose the Right Time
Timing is key when starting this discussion. Avoid bringing it up during stressful moments or when emotions are running high. Find a calm and quiet time when you both can focus on the conversation. A relaxed setting allows for better communication and understanding. Be patient and let them share their thoughts without feeling rushed.
A great time to bring up the topic of elder care is during the middle of the morning. Your mom or dad will be alert and focused, not tired, and yet stressed out by the day. Make sure they have breakfast first too.
Focus on Their Needs
Frame the conversation around their specific needs. Explain that home care isn’t about taking away their independence but about helping them stay safe and comfortable. For example, mention how a caregiver could assist with chores, meal preparation, or other tasks that have become difficult. Showing how home care supports their daily life can make the idea more acceptable.
Always keep the tone of the conversation upbeat. If your mom or dad realizes that elder care can really make their life at home easier and more pleasant they will have an easier time accepting that they need help and they will be more willing to try it.
Use Positive Language
Avoid negative or accusatory phrases like “You can’t do this anymore.” Instead, use positive and encouraging language. Highlight the benefits of home care, such as having extra help or companionship. Focus on how it will improve their quality of life. A positive tone helps reduce feelings of defensiveness or fear.
Involve Them in the Decision
Make your parent feel involved in the process. Ask for their opinions and preferences about home care. Discuss what tasks they would like assistance with or what type of caregiver they would feel comfortable with. Giving them control over the decision shows respect and makes them more likely to accept help.
Make sure they know that they can pick a care provider that they like and that they will have the final say over how much help they receive. Ask them to try elder care for a few weeks or a month to see for themselves how much it can help them.
Share Personal Concerns
Let your parent know you’re coming from a place of love. Share how much you care about their well-being and why you’re worried. For example, mention if you’ve noticed changes in their health or difficulty with daily tasks. Be honest but gentle, and emphasize that you want what’s best for them. This approach builds trust and understanding.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Elder Care Services near Danbury CT, please call and talk to our friendly and dedicated staff. (203) 744-8380
Home Care Advantage provides quality Non-Medical Home Care for seniors and families in Danbury, Bethel, Easton, Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield, Southbury, Weston, Westport, Wilton, and surrounding areas.
With over 25 years of healthcare experience working with seniors, our model and approach to non-medical home care services are straightforward, providing you with the compassionate care you deserve. Providing care from the heart is what we are all about; we proactively work with you and your family to develop a care plan designed to meet your specific need for assistance and budget.
In addition to having an extensive work background in healthcare, my recent educational experience allowed me to earn my Doctorate Degree in public healthcare. This achievement enhanced my knowledge of the ever-evolving healthcare delivery system and heightened my awareness that you cannot go it alone to get the best outcome. Additionally, I have seen how some of my family members struggled and were overwhelmed with ensuring that their parents were safe and their needs were met. They did not know who to trust or where to turn for reliable and affordable help. I have made it our mission to be part of the solution allowing seniors to remain independent and be treated with the respect they deserve.
We are committed to providing excellent care for our clients, just as we would care for members of our own families. Please be assured that I will use my knowledge and background to protect and be a trusted resource for seniors and their families.
You can be confident that our caregivers are carefully screened, dependable, and selectively chosen to meet the specific needs of our clients. They are experienced and highly trained to provide excellent quality care and follow a strict professional code of conduct and ethics.
Our caregivers are competitively paid directly by our agency; there is no additional charge to you. Home Care Advantage files Social Security/Medicare, Federal and State Withholding Tax, and Unemployment Insurance for our employees. Workers’ compensation insurance and a fidelity bond cover the caregivers and supervisory staff.
Our caregivers are here for you and will work hard to assist you with your specific needs in the comfort of your own home. It is said that “Home is where the heart is.” Let Home Care Advantage provide care that will enrich your life and help you maintain an independent lifestyle in the comfort of your own home, “where you want to be.” Call us now! We look forward to working with you and your family.
Dr. Beverly J. Ruekberg, DHP, MPH, MA, Ed.
President/Geriatric Care Manager
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