Talking to your elderly parents about moving them to a retirement community or undergoing in-home care can be difficult. There may be some resentment or anxieties to work through, but it’s important to have this conversation. You can make it easier, though, by doing it the right way. Here are a few tips on how to do just that.
Prepare for the Conversation
Before you start the conversation, it’s always important to be ready. Do some research and prepare yourself. The following are things you can do to be truly prepared for the talk.
- Write down a list of concerns you have about your parents. Some examples of concerns you could have are: their health problems, their difficulty handling their own daily care, the safety of your home for them, etc.
- Research retirement communities and senior care options like home help for the elderly. While doing your research, always have your aging parent in mind. Try to figure out what’s best for them. Whatever you do, don’t downplay how much help your parent will need. Rather, try to be as accurate and objective as possible. Do your research about hospice care and home health care in the most thorough way you can.
- Read up on the importance of living situations for seniors. Obviously, where you’re located and your environment can have an effect on your life. This, however, is especially true for seniors as they are much more sensitive to their environment. This doesn’t just impact physical safety; it also affects mental health and longevity.
- All this research and education will hopefully give you the confidence you need to start the talk. Don’t think for a second, however, that this means you can make decisions without the consent of your elderly parents. Their consent matters. You’re just making sure you’re informed enough to help your parents make decisions and answer any questions they may have.
The Talk
When you feel you’ve learned enough to confidently explain the options and answer any questions your parents might have, it’s time to have the talk. Here are a few tips to make sure the talk goes as smoothly as possible.
- Try to talk to them as soon as possible. Don’t wait for a health crisis to start this conversation for you. Give yourself time and space to talk about it so that you aren’t rushed into a decision.
- As much as possible, try to talk in person. If you really can’t meet, set up a video call. Choose a time when your parents are relaxed and well-rested. Make sure to block this time out so that there are no interruptions or distractions.
- Make sure you are really listening to your parents as you talk. It’s possible that your parents may have issues and concerns. Whatever they are, don’t downplay them. Acknowledge their feelings and communicate with them.
Conclusion
No matter how strongly you feel about how helpful a retirement community or in-home care can be, don’t force the issue. Respect the decision of your aging parents. The most you can do is schedule another talk for another time and try to convince them then.
Looking into hospice care in Denver and Colorado Springs, CO? Contact Gateway Home Health today! We are committed to providing the highest quality home-based patient care.