Talking to a Loved One About Caregiving

Caring for an aging loved one means the occasional uncomfortable conversation, but discussing care options doesn’t have to be one of those discussions you try to avoid. As with any exchange, talking to your loved one about caregiving is about the approach and preparation. By starting the conversation early, explaining the role of a caregiver in your loved one’s life, and keeping an open dialogue, this caregiving discussion will be effortless and effective. 

Start Early

You don’t want to wait until your loved one desperately needs at-home assistance before you start talking to them about hiring an at-home caregiver. Instead, start the conversation early, so they have time to consider the idea and consider how a caregiver can fit into their life. 

Starting the discussion before your loved one needs a caregiver allows you and your loved one to begin services slowly. You can start with a part-time caregiver who visits your loved one’s house twice weekly to help with laundry, grocery shopping, and light housekeeping. Then as your loved one needs more assistance, the caregiver can work more hours or help with more nonmedical tasks. That way, if it comes to a point where your loved one needs a full-time caregiver, it won’t feel like an abrupt change but a gradual progression. 

Explain the Role of a Caregiver

There’s often a misconception about what hiring a caregiver means for the client. Some people are resistant to caregivers because they believe a caregiver is going to remove their independence. In reality, the role of an at-home caregiver is to help seniors remain independent by assisting with nonmedical tasks like housekeeping, medication reminders, meal preparation, and transportation. Caregivers can also provide hands-on assistance such as personal grooming, showering, toileting, and dressing. 

Ensure your loved one knows the caregiver will not take control of their home but is there to make life easier. At Visiting Angels, we work hard to pair clients with caregivers who are capable of providing care and have similar interests and personalities as clients, so there’s potential for a genuine connection and relationship. 

Keep an Open Dialogue 

It may take more than one conversation with a loved one for them to feel comfortable working with a caregiver, and that’s okay. Keep an open dialogue by asking your loved ones about their concerns or fears. Listen openly to what they have to say and take it seriously. Ensure they know you’re always available to talk and keep them in the decision process. If the two of you decide hiring a professional caregiver is the best option, keep your loved one involved in meetings and consultations with caregivers and agencies so they know their thoughts and opinions matter. 

Getting Started with Visiting Angels

If you’re ready to take the next step in working with a professional caregiver, the Visiting Angels team would love to connect. We offer a complimentary consultation to all potential clients where our care team can learn more about you and your loved one’s needs. It’s also an excellent time to ask questions and discover the benefits of personalized at-home care. 

Our Jasper office proudly works with clients and families through Jasper and the communities of Walker County. Call us at 205-388-9353 to schedule a consultation, or message us with any questions.