Perhaps you remember having “the talk” with your parents about those cringeworthy pre-teen topics. If you thought that was uncomfortable, brace yourself for “the talk” about senior care needs with your parents! This could be extremely difficult, for a number of reasons:
- Your parents may resent what seems to be a reversal of roles or being told what to do
- They could feel threatened and fearful of losing independence in addition to the freedom to make their own choices
- They may be in denial that there’s a problem at all
What are the best ways to overcome these very valid feelings to get to a place of acceptance about home care services? Try these tips as a starting point:
- Plan the conversation: who will attend, what you will discuss, where you can best talk without distractions.
- Think through what it could be like to be in your parents’ shoes and how you would want the conversation to go.
- Resolve to remain calm and respectful through the entire discussion, never trying to parent your parents.
- Listen carefully to your parents’ worries with an open mind and without preplanned responses.
- Realize there could possibly be more than one solution – and, that it often takes more than one conversation to achieve agreement.
Tips for a Smoother Talk About Senior Care Needs With Your Parents
Before approaching your parents, practice what you plan to say with a friend you trust to give you honest feedback. Role-playing is a great way to fine-tune your words and presentation and to help you gain confidence.
When you are prepared to sit down with your parents, be prepared for any outcome. In a perfect world, they will agree with your concerns and be open to getting the support of a home care professional. It is certainly plausible that they share your concerns, but were unsure how to broach the subject with you. But also be ready for defensiveness, resistance, and perhaps even anger.
If the discussion is producing heightened emotions and you are heading for an impasse, pause the conversation and try again later. It may be helpful to include someone your parents respect and trust in a future conversation, like a close friend or healthcare professional.
When you are ready to explore home care options for your parents, contact Superior Senior Home Care. We can begin with minimal support, such as meals, light housekeeping, or transportation, and slowly work up to more care as soon as your parent feels at ease with their caregiver.
We understand how difficult it can be for someone to acknowledge the need for help in the home. Our goal is always to cultivate an atmosphere of independence in which each person in our care remains as much in control of each of life’s decisions as possible. You can connect with us 24/7 at 805-737-4357 to learn more about our highly personalized home care services in San Luis Obispo, Solvang, Arroyo Grande, and surrounding areas.