Page 11 - BusinessWest March 31, 2021

Talking To
Your Loved One
How do you tell your loved one that you are concerned about them living alone at home? How do you help them keep their independence without interfering in their life or making decisions for them?
These are diffiffifficult topics to discuss with your
loved one. With advanced planning and straight- forward discussions, the home care process can add signififificantly to everyone’s peace of mind.
Family Meeting
Setting up a family meeting can be a great place to begin. Prior to having your loved one attend the meeting, it’s wise to have the family discuss care
to allow everyone the opportunity to get on the same page.
The support of a family meeting alone may be enough to convince them that they should consider some form of home care before their health deteriorates. Remember, your job is to help them make decisions, not to make decisions for them.
After the initial family meeting, gently suggest they make an appointment with their physician for a thorough evaluation. This professional evaluation can go a long way in helping them decide that they could use assistance in their home.
Have a Plan
Even with the most thought out and well planned family meeting, resistance from your loved one is normal. If your loved one’s health and/or safety are at issue, say so, and push the discussion forward. You can also involve others, such as clergy, physicians or a geriatric care manager.
Moving Forward
Be direct and speak with them about having a home care agency come to their home and meet with them. This will allow your loved one to get a sense of exactly what such an agency can do for them.
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