Change is an inevitable part of life. Just as we all move from childhood into teenage years, teenage years into young adulthood, and young adulthood into midlife, we also will experience the transition to senior adulthood. This transition looks different for everyone, but for many aging adults it can be challenging to come to terms with the fact that they can’t do everything that they once could.

As an adult child watching your parents age, you may be wondering how to sit down with them and have a conversation about the need for finding in-home care. These tips and strategies will be useful for making the transition to in-home care as smooth as possible.

Recognize the Need for In-Home Senior Care

How do you know that it’s time for your aging loved one to transition to non-medical, in-home care? If you are taking on the role of your aging parent’s primary caregiver, it can lead to stress and guilt about not doing enough. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the responsibilities, it’s nothing to feel ashamed of. This is a sign that it’s time to reach out for professional caregiving help. If your loved one’s ability to perform tasks on their own is deteriorating, or you are worried about their health and safety, it’s time to have the conversation about finding in-home care.

Prepare for the In-Home Care Conversation

You will want to prepare for the in-home care conversation with your loved one by gathering information about different care options. Try to anticipate any questions or concerns that may arise and be prepared to learn more about the answers together. Be prepared to explain your reasoning behind initiating the conversation and the ways that your loved one would benefit from the transition into in-home care.

Choose the Right Time and Environment

There will never be a perfect moment to talk to your aging loved one about in-home care services, but be mindful to choose a time and place where they are comfortable, at ease, and open to talk. Let them know that you have something important to discuss, and make sure it’s a suitable time for them to be open and willing to have the conversation with you.

Communicate Effectively

It’s important to approach the conversation around in-home care from a place of empathy, compassion, and understanding. This should be a two-way conversation. Their input and opinion matters, and it’s important that you express that. Actively listen to their feedback and questions and address the issues you can. If they are resistant to the idea of professional caregiving, try focusing more on how this will meet their personal needs and wishes. Initiate the discussion by asking open-ended questions such as:

• What is most important to you as you age?
• How can I help support you as you age?
• Are you feeling any resistance to in-home care?
• How can you see in-home care helping you maintain your independence?

Explore In-Home Care Options

Once you are on the same page about the need for professional care, you can work together to explore the best options to meet your family’s needs. Does your loved one need assistance with household tasks, transportation to appointments, or around-the-clock care? Find reputable caregivers that specialize in what is most important to your unique situation. In some cases, talking to your loved one’s healthcare provider will give you additional support and resources.

Make a Decision Together

Although the conversation with an elderly parent around transitioning to in-home care can be difficult, remember that the end goal is to ensure they are able to age comfortably and happily. In some cases, it may already be on their mind, and bringing it up to them may be a relief. By deciding on an in-home care provider together, you can ease the transition your aging parent is going through.

At HomeSpark, we are happy to provide home safety assessments, craft customized care plans, and answer any questions your family has about non-medical, in-home care services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.