Ways to Talk to Seniors Aging in Place About Adding Assistance in the Home
May 2, 2024
As seniors age, it becomes inevitable to have conversations with them about their changing needs. One of those conversations, surrounding the subject of needing assistance while aging in place, can be one of the most emotional conversations loved ones and seniors have. However, for seniors to age in place safely, it’s a conversation that needs to occur. With an understanding of how elder care can assist seniors while they age in place and the tips below, loved ones can approach this conversation with confidence.
- Compassion is Key: Loved ones need to approach the subject with compassion. They should express their concern for seniors while acknowledging that both parties may find the conversation challenging. Additionally, it’s essential to let seniors know that loved ones want them to stay in their homes as long as possible, and that wish is what’s driving the conversation.
- Select the Appropriate Time and Setting: Time is crucial. Find a time when both parties are at ease, rather than in the height of stress. Also, select a quiet area where seniors feel free to talk about their wishes for the future as well as their concerns.
- Concentrate on Common Objectives and Issues: Instead of forcing the conversation, center it around common interests and concerns. Loved ones should stress how much they want seniors to be comfortable and safe while also having a good quality of life. When discussing common interests, it might also help to explain how elder care can assist seniors in continuing with some of those interests.
- Actively Listen and Acknowledge Their Emotions: Loved ones need to pay close attention to seniors' worries and emotions without discounting or interjecting. Reassure them that their feelings are real and validate their emotions. Refrain from assuming anything or too much about what they need or desire. Ask open-ended questions instead to entice them to express their opinions and worries.
- Introduce Options: Loved ones should learn about the many options and resources—such as home modifications, assistive technology, elder care, and more—that are available to support aging in place. Provide seniors with a non-confrontational presentation of these options, highlighting the advantages and ways in which they can improve their safety and independence.
- Honor Their Independence and Autonomy: Honor seniors' independence and their right to choose what support they receive as much as possible. While it might be hard, loved ones should steer clear of imposing their own preferences or being pushy. Rather, enable loved ones to participate actively in the decision-making process and motivate them to consider options that are consistent with their preferences and values.
- Go Back and Review the Discussion Occasionally: Given the dynamic nature of aging, demands and preferences are subject to change. Knowing this, be prepared to return to the conversation from time to time to see how loved ones are doing and to reevaluate what they need.
There is no doubt that it can be difficult to have these kinds of conversations, but it's crucial to their safety, comfort, and overall well-being as they age. Loved ones can encourage an honest and productive conversation that respects seniors' wishes and takes into account their changing needs by addressing the subject with empathy, sensitivity, and respect. In the meantime, reach out to an elder care team to learn how they benefit seniors aging in care so you have the education needed to present options to loved ones.