When you begin to detect the red flags that care in the home is necessary for Mom or Dad, it is rather common for them to balk at the idea. After all, admitting the need for assistance is not easy, particularly for somebody who appreciates their privacy and independence. Yet what do you do when another family member is in denial when a parent needs care? If you’ve come to an impasse within your family concerning the need for senior care, read on for tips on how to come to a resolution.
Why Would a Family Member Deny the Need for Care at Home?
Denial is a coping mechanism employed to safeguard against feelings of helplessness or concern about an upcoming change. Your family member may feel much more comfortable sticking their head into the sand in order to maintain status quo. Or, they may not be as knowledgeable about the day-to-day care of the older adult as you are, so they are not seeing the exact same concerns.
Whatever the cause for the denial, there are strategies to help you see eye to eye and make certain the older adult you both love receives the necessary care and support.
- Educate. Instead of arguing from your perspective, turn to trustworthy resources to validate your opinion. Research the details on the progression of a particular health issue the older adult is managing. Learn together about the challenges of growing older, the risks of senior falls, when it may be time to hand over the car keys, etc., and use that education as the springboard for a conversation on how best to ensure comfort and safety for the older adult.
- Listen. Communication is a two-way street, so be sure to listen at least as much as you’re presenting your personal thoughts and concerns. Recognize and validate the person’s feelings. Try to the very best of your ability to keep the discussion calm and on an even keel, avoiding anger, sarcasm, and comments you might later regret.
- Reinforce. Bring in a professional third party to reinforce the advantages of home care services in your particular situation. Make a scheduled appointment to consult with the individual’s physician together. Sometimes, hearing firsthand information from a healthcare expert is all that is needed to help a family member in denial to change their viewpoint.
Also, bear in mind that it can be beneficial to start home care services gradually, and slowly build up to more services over time. For instance, Radiant Health Services can begin with light housekeeping, preparing meals, and running errands or providing transportation initially. As the caregiver and senior create a bond of trust and companionship and the benefits of home care services become more evident, it’s then very easy to add in more hours or extra care tasks, such as help with bathing and other personal care needs.
When you’re ready to explore home care for someone you love, we’re here to consult with you and your family about options and to answer any questions you may have. We are available to address any concerns a member of your family is feeling about initiating home care services during a complimentary consultation, right in the comfort of home.
Reach out to Radiant Health Services at (240) 673-6377 any time to find out more or to get started.