Starting The Conversation About Homecare Assistance

Advice on how to approach the topic of home care with a loved one

Whether your senior loved one needs homecare assistance right now or you just want to explore home care options in case they need help and support in the future, you should talk to them about the possibility of receiving care. We understand that this conversation is a difficult one to start, but it’s important that your aging loved one knows what they can expect from care at home.

Here are some useful tips on beginning the discussion about senior care with your loved one.

Start the Conversation Early

One of the most common mistakes families make is waiting to talk about homecare assistance with their loved one until they can’t lead an independent lifestyle without help anymore. To make sure your parent or relative is fully involved in the conversation, you should begin it early, while they are still of sound mind and body.

Include the Entire Family  

As tempting as it may be to make the decision about your loved one’s future on your own, it is best to involve the whole family and listen to what every family member has to say. This way, you can all reach a mutual agreement before bringing up the conversation to your loved one, also showing your parent or relative that you are all on the same page when it comes to their care.  

Choose the Main Speaker

Although it is important that everyone speaks during the family gathering, one person should be in charge of the discussion, introducing the topic properly and leading the conversation in the right direction. While planning for the conversation about homecare assistance, everyone can turn to this person for instructions and details, too.  

Inform Yourself as Much as Possible

To ensure the conversation goes smoothly, you should all prepare well for the discussion. This can include writing down topics you want to talk about, finding answers to the most common questions about care, researching the types of care available in your area, and more.  

Avoid Confrontation

The conversation about home care should focus on your loved one’s well-being. This means you should be supportive and understanding of your parent or relative’s needs, wishes, and fears. Listen to what they have to say and avoid telling them what they should do.

Be Patient  

Although it is possible, you probably won’t decide everything during just one sitting, so don’t rush things and be patient. The conversation about care should be an open one and involve a couple of gatherings. This way, you can be sure that the decision you’ve reached is really the best one for your parent or relative.  

 If you need any help planning or starting the conversation about homecare assistance, please give us a call today at (208) 733-8988. We are happy to help!