To an aging-in-place senior, there’s no place like home. In fact, an AARP survey revealed that over 75% of adults 50+ want to live in their homes as long as possible. The comfort of their own home, the familiarity of their surroundings, and memories of their children and grandchildren at their home mean so much to them.
Although seniors love being at home and they value their independence, there is sometimes cause for concern for their family when they notice the parent is:
- Walking with an unsteady gait
- Forgetting to take medications
- Unable to handle personal care or household tasks
This can lead a child to believe there could be a safety issue for their parent and that it’s time to begin considering a home care service to assist their loved one. They want their parent to be able to stay in their home comfortably and safely.
However, the parent may not see things the same way. Seniors can view having a caregiver in the home as an invasion of privacy and may feel a loss of dignity by accepting home care.
Here are five suggestions to help ease a loved one into accepting home care assistance:
1. Understand the emotions involved.
Resistance by a senior can be especially strong. They’ve been living independently for many years and take pride in their self-sufficiency. As increasing age and declining health take their toll, they may resent change and stubbornly refuse to acknowledge the need for assistance. Understanding your loved one’s point of view can help you find the patience and compassion to handle the transition with grace and dignity.
2. Identify their fears.
It may seem incomprehensible that your loved one doesn’t want to accept the help they need. Discussing some of the fears they’re experiencing can help you alleviate their stress.
For example, if your loved one worries that accepting home care means they’re one step closer to being moved to a nursing home, you can assure them that home care will actually delay or prevent the need for them to be moved to a facility.
3. Take the blame, if necessary.
You can help protect their pride if you tell them that the reason you want to utilize home care is to take pressure off of you, and it will allow you to spend more quality time together. Re-framing the reason can help eliminate negativity and lets them know that you’re looking after your own needs, as well as theirs. It promotes a win-win situation for you and your loved one.
4. Involve your parent in the process.
Your loved one may feel better about having an aide if they’re included in interviewing and selection, as well as setting schedules for an aide to come to the home. Allow them to choose the times of the day or hours of days of the week to give them some semblance of control, which is an essential component of a happy life.
5. Accentuate the positive.
Many seniors feel lonely and would love a new friend and companion. Emphasize to your loved one that they’ll be getting that when they have a hand-picked caregiver that not only provides the type and quality of care needed but will also become someone they enjoy sharing life with.
We Can Work With You
Help At Home has been providing personalized home care assistance in Chevy Chase, MD for over 20 years. We can help your loved one peacefully transition into having an aide spending time with them. Our dependable and affordable care will give you greater peace of mind and your loved one the personalized care they deserve.
Contact us today and schedule your free consultation with a professional care consultant. We’re licensed and insured and have offices in Chevy Chase and Rockville to serve you. We’ll be happy to help your loved one continue to enjoy the comforts of their home.
