How to Help Your Aging Loved One Accept Help

Author

Visiting Angels of Chelmsford

Posted on

Aug 25, 2022

Book/Edition

Massachusetts - Boston Metro West

Asking for help is hard. When seniors begin to show signs of needing assistance, they are usually not the first to point it out. If you are concerned about your aging loved one’s safety in their home, it may be time to look into home care assistance from a trusted agency like Visiting Angels. If your loved one needs to be persuaded to accept the idea of an in-home caregiver. Here are elements that can help you navigate this important conversation.

Common worries among seniors

Is your loved one uncomfortable with the idea of a stranger coming into their home. They might see this as an invasion of privacy, especially if they have lived alone or independently for a long time. They may also feel a loss of dignity from the inability to help themself. This is an understandable feeling, but hopefully, it is something you can work through for the betterment of their safety and your peace of mind. For those with Alzheimer’s or dementia, these feelings can be exacerbated.

Focus on the positives

If you’re met with resistance, focus on the improvements an in-home caregiver will make in their quality of life. Emphasize that the caregiver will help them with household tasks and personal care needs. Remind your loved one that the caregiver will support their needs, but not take over their life.

Emphasize your needs

You are likely looking for an in-home caregiver because you cannot be there for your loved one around the clock, and you’re concerned about their safety. Communicate that having professional in-home support does not mean you will not be there to help at all. It means that having a caregiver, will bring you peace of mind and allow for more quality time when you are with them. Stress the mutual benefit you both will gain.

Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by Karen Woodrow, Director/Owner, Visiting Angels of Chelmsford/Burlington and Visiting Angels of Newton/Canton. She can be reached at KWoodrow@VisitingAngels.com. Visiting Angels has been providing experienced senior home care since 1998. Contact your local office to schedule a complimentary care assessment with one of our senior experts.

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