Tips for Helping Your Favorite Senior Stay in Great Health

3 Tips For Talking To Elderly Parents About In-Home Healthcare

2 November 2017 by Florence Morrison

It's not at all uncommon for seniors to desire to stay in their homes and maintain their independence as they age. According to one survey, nearly 90% of seniors want to stay in their homes, and 82% still prefer to stay at home even if they need ongoing healthcare. This should make in-home healthcare a popular option for seniors, but if you're an adult child, you may find that your parents are resistant to the idea of bringing in a home healthcare worker, even if you think they need it. Take a look at some tips that will help you have a productive discussion with your parents about hiring in-home healthcare workers.

Understand Their Position

Before you can begin to convince your parent that they should have in-home help, you'll first need to understand why they are resistant to the idea. There are many reasons your parent might dismiss the idea of hiring a home healthcare worker.

They may fear that they can't afford it, or they may simply dislike the idea of a stranger in their home. They may even feel home healthcare is a first step to losing their independence entirely. They may also feel that their health problems don't yet necessitate in-home care.

It's important that you come to the conversation ready to address these concerns. Research costs and ways to pay for home health care. Will the VA, Medicare, or Medicaid cover it? Will you and your siblings or other family members chip in?

Talk to your parent about the screening process you would use to choose a qualified worker or agency. Reassure them that your goal is to help them stay in their home, not gradually get them ready to a nursing home.

Point Out the Benefits of In-Home Care

There are several things that your parents might enjoy about having a home health worker. For example, if you're considering hiring an aide who will also perform some household duties, like cooking or cleaning, point out that with these things taken care of, your parent will have more time to pursue other things they enjoy.

If you or other family members have been doing caregiving and chores for your parent, point out that with a home health aide to take care of these duties, you'll have more time to do fun things or just visit with your parent.

Be Aware of Time and Place

Don't spring a discussion about hiring an in-home healthcare worker on your parent at your family's Thanksgiving celebration, or at some other time and place where they're likely to be emotional. You might also want to avoid bringing it up first thing in the morning or right before bed, when they may not be as alert and engaged as possible.

You don't want your parent to feel ambushed. Consider having the discussion in a neutral place, like a restaurant or park. Choose a time when both you and your parent feel rested and calm, not when emotions are running high or when everyone is tired or cranky.

It can help to do your research ahead of time. Consider contacting some home health agencies in your area to discuss rates, services, and other factors so that you can go into the discussion armed with all the information you need. To learn more, contact a company like Neighbors Home Care Services. 

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