Health & Fitness
The Importance of Family Communication
I have written in the past about the importance of advance planning and having a conversation with your elderly parents now so you understand their health care wants. That's easy to say but seldom gets done.
Talking to your loved one about what they want as they age can be difficult. The ideal time to have this talk about future possibilities is before they show signs of needing extra help. Dialogue can be more successful when you actively listen. Remember your goal is to exchange ideas and explore options. Incorporate phrases like "educated decision" and "your personal choices".
With advance sharing and planning, old age can live up to our best expectations. Without advanced planning a sentinel event for a loved one puts adult children into crisis mode. They don't know what their parents health care wishes are, they haven't taken any proactive actions and haven't had a discussion amongst themselves as to how to move forward.
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Do Mom or Dad want to stay home versus moving into a facility where care can be provided 24x7? Is their home set up for elders? Does it have a first floor bedroom and bathroom? Can Mom or Dad afford several thousand dollars per month for in home care? Do they have Long Term Care Insurance? If so, what does it cover?
How do I select a home care agency to provide care? What are the pros and cons of engaging family members as caregivers for the elder? Do they have any relevant experience dealing with elders with dementia? Should I save money and hire a caregiver privately rather than go through an agency? What risks am I taking particularly if the caregiver gets hurt trying to lift Mom or Dad? Do I need to pay social security and other taxes for the private hire? Should I do a background check on the caregiver?Who is in charge of making decisions on behalf of Mom or Dad. Is there a Healthcare Power of Attorney which designates someone to act on their behalf? Do the siblings agree with their choice? Can they be supportive and helpful? Do they understand the medical and psychological implications of the current situation? If not, will their disagreement and education deficit impede timely decision making?
Find out what's happening in Wilmette-Kenilworthwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
As our loved ones live longer the likelihood that they will need help in their home, need to move towards an assisted living facility or deal with dementia increases. Getting the advice of an expert before and during may reduce the stress associated with helping your parent age with dignity. To learn more about us visit our website www.NSSeniorCare.com.
