Returning home for the holidays can be a joyous occasion, but it can also bring to light changes in the health and well-being of our aging loved ones. If you’ve recently visited your parents and are noticing care needs during the holidays, such as Mom is becoming increasingly forgetful or Dad is not moving as well as he did last year, you’re not alone. Many adult children experience a holiday reality check – a time when family visits reveal a need for care that may have been overlooked throughout the year.
Addressing these changes during a seasonal visit is not only common but also an opportune time to discuss the possibility of additional care at home. Having family and friends around for support can make it easier to broach the subject. If you find yourself in this situation, consider using the following tips to start a conversation about a care plan with your loved ones:
- Share Your Concerns: Approach the conversation openly and honestly. Express your worries about their health, emphasizing that your intention is to support them. This may motivate them to consider seeing a doctor or making necessary lifestyle changes.
- Create a Sense of Planning: Discuss your observations with concrete examples. Ask your loved one about their perspective on the situation and what they think might be going on. Encourage them to actively participate in creating a plan for their care.
- Address Safety Issues: Point out potential safety concerns in their home. Work collaboratively to identify and devise a plan to address these issues, ensuring a safe living environment.
- Encourage a Regular Medical Checkup: Stress the importance of regular health checkups. Offer to assist in scheduling the visit or accompanying them to the doctor’s appointment. Alternatively, help find someone else to accompany them if they prefer.
- Contact the Doctor for Guidance: If your concerns are dismissed, consider reaching out to their doctor directly. Obtain the necessary permissions to discuss their medical information. Sharing your insights with the doctor can provide valuable context for upcoming visits and aid in a more comprehensive assessment.
It’s important to acknowledge that initial discussions about care may not always go smoothly. The key is to convey your concerns and express a willingness to collaborate on a plan that works best for your loved ones. While immediate decisions may not be necessary, ensuring that they are aware of your concerns is crucial.
If you find it challenging to broach the topic of in-home care with someone you love, consider seeking assistance from the expert caregivers at CareFor in Austin, SanAntonio, San Marcos, or the surrounding areas. Our professional guidance can help facilitate these discussions and provide valuable insights into the available care options. You can reach us any time at (512) 338-4533 or through our online contact form.