830.225.2273
#1 Home care agency serving Boerne, Fair Oaks, Leon Springs and The Dominion
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We understand. Talking to a parent about their care can be difficult. Perhaps you’ve tried to broach the subject of in-home elderly care and the conversation didn’t go well. Maybe you’re thinking it’s time for in-home dementia care for your mom or dad, but are worried they’ll react with resistance.
If you or your loved one has experienced a change in health or capabilities or you need respite from being a family caregiver, we are only a call away. Let’s connect. We listen. We care. We promise.
Call us at (830) 225-2273 or schedule your appointment on-line here.
At Inspired Care Solutions, we’ve collected a lot of experience over the years communicating with families about the need for home care. Read on for some tips that we believe can promote a conversation that’s a win for everyone.
1. Find the right time and place to talk. Look for an opportunity to talk when you’re already engaged in normal conversation, over lunch or on a walk. The time to talk to a parent about home care isn’t when they’ve misplaced something or forgotten to take a medication. When something happens that points to your parent’s need for help, simply tuck it away as a sign that a conversation needs to happen, but not in that moment. Timing your conversation appropriately can help keep emotions in check–theirs and yours.
2. Start with how you’re feeling. Tell them how much you enjoy being with them and available to help them with day-to-day tasks, but that you worry when you’re not there. Don’t begin by listing their challenges or how they are less capable of caring for themselves. Speak with words of love and a desire to help make their days easier and safer.
3. Watch your tone. Imagine how they might feel, knowing they are becoming more dependent on others. Aging can bring on a range of emotions, such as sadness and fear. Ensure that your tone is not condescending, bossy or dismissive. Be gentle. Be kind. Be loving.
4. Pause to listen. Allow for some room to let them respond, even if that means going silent for a bit. When they do speak, acknowledge that you’re listening through body language and phrases such as “I understand how you feel that way.” Repeat what you heard them say so they feel understood and validated.
5. Accept that the first conversation you have won’t be the only conversation you have. The topic of in-home care can be discussed several times before parents warm up to the idea. Consider your first conversation the ice-breaker and expect to continue the dialogue going forward. Think of it as planting the seed and allowing the conversation to grow. And the sooner you “plant”, the sooner you’ll be able to take action and improve their quality of life before a crisis occurs.
If you’re thinking about senior home care for a loved one, we can help prepare you for that conversation. Arm yourself with facts about in-home care services that are available and you will feel more confident speaking about it. Call us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
CALL INSPIRED CARE SOLUTIONS
To our clients and their loved ones, we want to be clear on our promise to you. We promise care that inspires our clients to live their best lives. We promise care that is delivered with compassion, clear expectations, and thorough follow-through on what we say we are going to do. We are purpose-driven caregivers who focus on a personal connection with our clients and the joy we can bring to their experience. We show up on time and we consistently maintain communication with you and all of those involved in your care. Our team is inspired so you can be inspired.
