advertisement

Time for an Intervention: When Mom Can No Longer Care for Herself

Many elderly people today want to live out their lives in their own homes, where they feel comfortable in their surroundings, rather than in a nursing home or relative's house. So, what should you do if you suspect your elderly loved one no longer can handle being on his or her own but doesn't want to move?

Handle With Care, a leading in-home care and assistance company in Elmhurst, suggests taking the following steps in partnership with Senior Helpers:

1. Communicate regularly - Have frequent conversations with the elderly person and be sure to bring concerns to your loved one's attention. Always use the pronoun "I," not "you." Pointing the finger can put them on the defense.

2. Be aware - Go to doctor visits with the senior so you are aware of their medical needs. If the physician has any concerns, this will give them an opportunity to let you know.

3. Turn to the experts - Sometimes an agency will have better luck getting across to an elderly person than a loved one. An agency can address the situation without emotion.

4. Be supportive - Don't tell your loved one what to do. Instead, make suggestions of ways to make their lives easier. If you're planning to hire an in-home health care provider, be sure to point out the pros and be positive.

5. Position it as a trial - When you suggest home care, position it as a trial (i.e. - nothing is permanent). This seems to make the discussion a bit easier.

For more information on caring for your elderly loved on in the Elmerst-area, please visit handlewcare.com.

Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.