5 Tips for Talking to Mom and Dad About Caregiving
In-home care is one of the most difficult topics you’ll ever have a conversation about with your parents. While they want to maintain their independence, diminished mobility or cognitive functioning can make it hard for seniors to live alone. Hiring an at-home caregiver will keep your parents safe and comfortable for as long as possible.
How To Talk About At-Home Care with Mom and Dad
While tough, you should discuss home care services with your parents sooner rather than later. Here are five helpful tips to get you started.
1. Practice Makes Perfect
Doing a practice run with your siblings or spouse is helpful before approaching Mom and Dad. Practice initiating the conversation, explaining the reasons for hiring a caregiver, and handling any questions or concerns your parents might have.
2. Do Your Homework
To ensure the conversation goes smoothly, thoroughly research in-home caregiving services. Research service providers, client testimonials, and how their services will benefit your parents. This will help you make them feel more comfortable with the decision.
3. Focus on the Benefits
Your parents might feel that hiring a caregiver will rob them of their independence. Explain that quite the opposite is true. In-home caregivers will help your folks maintain their independence for as long as possible. Talk about the benefits of in-home care services. For example, a caregiver can help with light housekeeping, meal preparation, or transportation. Your parents can enjoy a clean, comfortable home for years to come.
4. Mind Your Emotions
You may become frustrated with your parents’ resistance to caregiving services. However, don’t let your emotions get the better of you. Closely listen to what your parents say to understand their concerns or fears. Remember, this is ultimately their decision—not yours. If you get upset or angry, your parents will likely become more unwilling.
5. Do a Test Run
Make Mom and Dad more comfortable with caregiving services by doing a trial run. Visiting Angels Scranton provides flexible caregiving plans that accommodate your parents’ changing needs. They can start with housekeeping help. If they like that, discuss adding more services to their plan.
The Importance of Hiring an In-Home Caregiver
To maintain their quality of life, elderly parents may need to hire in-home caregivers. Painful chronic conditions, cognitive disorders, and limited mobility can make it hard for seniors to complete basic tasks like bathing, laundry, and cooking. They might also need help getting to their doctor’s appointments or running errands.
Additionally, seniors who have lost a spouse might feel alone and isolated. Companion caregivers can help alleviate these emotions.
Award-Winning Scranton Caregiving Services
Looking for an exceptional in-home care provider for your parents? Visiting Angels Scranton proudly serves the communities of Pittston, Waverly, Scranton, and the surrounding areas. Our compassionate caregivers can help your parents with daily chores, personal grooming, cooking, transportation, and medication management.
To learn more, contact us today by calling (570) 800-5270. We look forward to hearing from you!