How Do I Talk to a Family Member About Receiving Care at Home?

Maybe you’ve noticed some signs that your aging loved one needs care at home. For example, perhaps they’re losing weight because they rarely cook for themself, the pantry is almost bare, laundry is piling up, or their appearance and hygiene are showing signs of neglect.

These are often indicators that the time for home care has arrived. However, talking with a family member about receiving home care can be challenging when it’s apparent that they still enjoy their independence and could become defensive if you begin a conversation about bringing in outside help.

Having provided home care services to families throughout Virginia since 1995, we’ve seen this challenge presented to families numerous times. Based on our experience, here are some suggestions that can help get the conversation started and ultimately provide your loved ones with the care they need.

Talk with them about the advantages of care at home

One of the main reasons seniors resist receiving assistance at home is because they don’t realize the advantages. You can help ease their mind by talking with them about the benefits of home care, including:

Maintaining their independence

A caregiver helps older adults continue doing everyday tasks like preparing meals, bathing, dressing, and walking while living at home as long as possible. This addresses their biggest fear: being moved into a facility, away from the place they feel safest: their home.

Safety

We provide many services to our clients, including keeping them safe. Our professional caregivers are trained to spot safety hazards, remove them, and reduce the risk of falls and injuries.

Relief for family caregivers

Professional caregivers can help with bathing, dressing, eating, meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication management, and much more. This can provide you with peace of mind and protect you against caregiver burnout.

Saves money

Home care saves families money by delaying or preventing the need for nursing home care or other types of care. In addition, Medicaid can help cover the cost of home care, as can private insurers that offer long-term care insurance.

Companionship

Many seniors are lonely. They are alone for long periods, which can ultimately lead to depression and other mental and physical disorders. Our caregivers provide many services, including socializing with those they care for, getting to know them, and engaging in activities the senior enjoys.

Make it about you, not them

It’s difficult for many seniors to admit that their capabilities are changing. They not only don’t want to lose their independence; they don’t want to be a burden either.

Explain to your family member how much you care about them and how you’ll feel much better knowing they’re receiving the care they need. Let them know that what’s happening is a normal part of life and how much pressure respite care will take off you by having someone come to their home and care for them.

Be patient with them

It’s probably going to take more than one conversation with them about receiving home care. Initial resistance is normal. When a senior feels that you are threatening their independence and there’s a chance that they can move to a facility, then they start to get defensive.

There may come a time when you’ll need to dig your heels in because it’s in their best interest. However, if your loved one is resistant to the idea of home care and becomes angry, gently table the discussion for another day and let them adjust to the idea. Not forcing the conversation will help them process what you’re suggesting and make them more responsive to it.

AmeriCare Plus understands the challenges families face when introducing home care to older family members. We’re happy to visit with you, learn about your needs, and make recommendations for a personalized care plan for your loved one.

Get in touch with us today. We understand the importance of finding a compassionate and experienced agency to work with. We look forward to assisting.