Caring for the elderly can be difficult, especially if a loved one refuses to accept assistance. The first step to overcoming this problem is to understand why they reject assistance. One of the most common reason is the fear of being a burden to their loved ones. Here are 7 steps for dealing with resistance for elderly care:
7 Steps to Deal with Resistance for Elderly Care:
Accept the situation as it is. The very fist step to dealing with resistance for elderly care is to accept your situation. Despite the fact that you have your parents’ best interests at heart, they are in charge of their own lives and care alternatives. They are grownups who have the authority to make judgments — even bad ones. Accepting this reality, as difficult as it may be, can help you relax and perhaps strengthen your connection with your aging parents.
Determine what assistance is required. Make an honest evaluation of the level of assistance your loved one needs and the services that would be most beneficial according to them.
Choose a time when both you and your loved one are at ease. This will make it easier for you and your loved one to communicate and listen to each other.
Inquire about their preferences. Is there a particular family member or sort of service that your loved one prefers to offer care? While you may not be able to fulfill all of your loved one’s desires, it is critical that you do so. If your loved one is having problems comprehending what you’re saying, make your explanations as simple as possible.
Request the assistance of other family members. Family and friends may be able to assist you in convincing your loved one to accept assistance. Please don’t give up. If your loved one refuses to talk about it the first time you bring it up, do it again later.
Start modest when offering alternatives to your elderly parent. In the beginning, an assistant could give in-home assistance two days a week. Alternatively, you may start assisting them with tasks such as driving or grocery shopping. Starting small makes it easier for your parents to adjust, and it may even warm their hearts to the thought of accepting additional support. You should never entirely revamp your loved one’s lifestyle since making drastic adjustments might cause a lot of grief and discomfort. Gradually introducing assistance demonstrates that you value their independence and respect their bounds.
Treat them as you would treat other adults. While it may feel as if you and your parents have exchanged roles at times, aiding elderly parents who refuse help is simpler when you respect and appreciate them. This is one of the most important steps to dealing with resistance for elderly care.
Pay attention to your parents’ demands. Even though you have their best interests at heart, keep in mind that they are the ones who make the final decisions, not you. You are only there to convince them and not force them to do something they don’t want.
Your Partner for Elderly Care:
We are a locally owned and operated company that proudly provides services to Downers Grove and other neighboring communities. We recognize that your loved ones’ needs may change from time to time. Because of this, we make sure our plans are flexible enough to accommodate them.
Call us now at (630) 225-0100 so we could give you a free in-home assessment for our home care services in Downers Grove and other surrounding areas.