Overcoming Resistance to Senior Care

One of the more frequent issues that arises when families begin thinking about senior care is resistance from the person who would be receiving it. Just talking about senior care with a parent can sometimes lead to an argument. Because it is an uncomfortable topic and because there is often such strong feelings about long term care, elderly individuals often get defensive about it.

 

Really, can you think of anyone who wants to need someone else’s help just to get through each day safely?

 

In that light, a resistance to starting senior care is completely normal. However, even if there is some resistance to the concept of senior care it does not mean that care is not needed. Approaching the matter in a loving way is important, even if they are starkly opposed to the concept. After all, denial is a common way that seniors deal with their growing need for help. Be loving, but also be honest. Pride, independence, and other characteristics can cloud your parent’s judgment and may make it difficult for them to see the truth. Honesty on your end can help to lift this fog.

 

Oftentimes, hearing this come from someone that they are not as close with, but still trust, can be more helpful. Another relative might be better suited for this conversation, or maybe a doctor or an attorney. You know your parent better than anyone else, so giving this tack some thought might be a good idea.

 

Resistance to care is often a normal response among seniors.

 

Sometimes, there are instances where your loved one can live safely at home by themselves. A caregiver might be helpful, but the lack of one doesn’t necessarily pose a risk to them. In this case, pushing for a caregiver to be present isn’t always the best thing to do. If health isn’t an issue and they are doing a good job of caring for themselves and their home, then a caregiver, as helpful as they might be, doesn’t necessarily need to be pursued. Independence is something that many seniors pride themselves on, and it should be maintained for as long as possible if it is desired.

 

At other times, care is opposed because of a lack of understanding. Care does not need to mean a nursing home. In-home care can usually accomplish many of the things that seniors need, and independence can still be maintained.

 

It’s natural for you to have concerns about the health and safety of an elderly loved one. That’s what families are for. Sometimes, compromises are needed involving care. At other times, you might need to make a decision that they will not like because of concerns about their health. Just remember that this is someone that you love and want the best for. The sooner that you start talking about senior care, the easier these decisions will be later on.

 

And remember, if there is anything that we can help you with on our, please feel free to give us a call. We offer a free consultation service that could be exactly what you and your mom or dad need to get the information needed to make the best possible decision for their care.

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