There’s no easy way to bring it up these issues up, “Mom it’s time to stop driving.” Or, “Dad I think we need to get a little help around the house for you.”  But it’s our responsibility to the same great people who carefully nurtured then set us free in the world. Too many times, someone calls and asks about home care only because of a very scary close call – then they were suddenly struck by the need to get some help for Mom or Dad.

Bringing Up Your Concern

Try to start talking about these issues, these milestones long before they are actually upon you, so you and your loved ones can all have an open discussion that is not yet immediate and urgent. Hopefully, you can reach agreement in advance, that when it’s time, we’re going to take steps so that they can continue to live safely at home as long as possible. Keep it light, but bring up this discussion from time to time and keep it current, top of mind.

If you have a particularly stubborn loved one, you need to choose your words and actions carefully. But you can’t let it go. For their safety, you can’t put off the discussion. Often starting with a low level of weekly care makes sense. It feels like just a little help around the house, not a big deal. It doesn’t greatly impact their daily routine, but it can provide an added check on Mom and Dad daily. And seniors usually make good, quick adjustments to leave the tough tasks until the caregiver comes tomorrow – heavy lifting or reaching that top shelf for example.

Read More About Adult Aging

Check out one of our past blog posts that talks about some of the warning signs that let you know it may be time to bring in some care. If you could use a little more preparation to have a tough talk, here are a couple of good resources. David Solie has written a good book called “How to Say it to Seniors,” and maintains a blog at www.davidsolie.com. You might also want to check out Dr. Rosen’s inspirational blog, www.AginginPlace.com.