In many cases, Seniors will resist getting help and this can be so challenging for families trying to initiate home care. It can be very difficult to recognize they are losing some independence and often they feel they are becoming a burden on others. There are some key things you can do to make sure you introduce home care in the right way which benefits everyone. Here are a few key points you might want to consider when talking to your parents or family member:
#1. Include your parents on the decision-making process. This decision will affect them the most so important they feel they are involved. Like anything, if you feel like you are helping decide you will be more invested.
#2. Talk about all the advantages of home care and not the limitations. The chances are your parents condition has reached a point they require additional help but important to positon this as a positive. While it’s important to have a firm grasp on their limitations it is equally important to promote the benefits of home care. Your parents have worked hard their whole lives and deserve this personal care at this important stage of their life.
#3 Let them know how this decision will help everyone. Sometimes Seniors will feel setting up and scheduling home care can be a burden on you based upon the financial requirements and the time to set up care. You can let them know having another person to help frees up time for everyone to enjoy the time together since many of the errands and other responsibilities are now shared by another person.
#4 Bring in a professional or other trusted people in their life if you need to. In many cases, Seniors have long and trusted relationships with a Primary Care Physician, Geriatric Care Manager or Clergy leaders who can help talk to them about the importance of getting the right support and care. When they see how everyone is invested in their well-being they are more open to additional resources to help.
#5 Sometimes the hardest part is getting start with home care. Many times, introducing home care as a short-term trial can be more effective as they do not feel they are locking into something they are unsure of. Once they are working with a caring professional Caregiver they will realize this is a great decision. Make sure to work with any agency with the highest quality Caregivers and who offer consistency with staff. Having a revolving door of Caregivers won’t benefit you or your parents.
