Strategies for Aging Parents and Long-Term Care
Whether it’s due to a love of their home and sense of independence or an early sign of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, seniors can get downright stubborn when it comes to the suggestion of transitioning into a long-term care facility.
Many adult children of parents in these scenarios can attest to this. Luckily, there are experts at handling this type of situation.
The staff at CHC is excellent at effectively communicating with aging parents and their adult children who might disagree about what’s best for their care. And if you’re trying to help from home, here are four essential tips that will keep things from getting combative at this important time in your relationship.
- Avoid Power Struggles
One of the main purposes of your parents’ life was nurturing you. Even as you became an adult, they were likely a source of advice and wisdom. As the parent ages, they may struggle with not being able to provide care for you—especially so if the situation becomes reversed. The best advice in these scenarios is: handle with care. Do not nag or push your parents into something that they may not think is a good idea. Be persistent, yet sensitive.
- Timing is Everything
When bringing up sensitive topics with anyone – your spouse, your boss, etc. – timing is everything. This goes for you and your parents as well. Make sure you are both having a good day and a calm demeanor before engaging in challenging conversations.
- Ask, Don’t Tell
Many people don’t want to be told what to do. This likely goes for your parents as well. Instead of telling them how they should be acting, ask them why they are doing what they’re doing. Questions like \"How come the electric bill didn’t get paid?\" or \"Why don’t you want us to drive you to the doctor?\" can provide insight into their line of thinking, and it could also get them to self-reflect and realize that they may require help.
- Get Support for Yourself
Even if you aren’t a caregiver, having the responsibility of ensuring the well-being of an aging parent can be stressful for you, so it’s important that you take the necessary steps to keep yourself in a good mindset. Bring in other family members to help come up with solutions, enlist in the support of your loved one’s friends or neighbors, talk to their doctor, and seek support for yourself–whether it be meditating, a support group, or a counselor.