Being a caregiver can be difficult under any circumstances. However, the challenges may be compounded when senior loved ones don’t want the help. Many seniors resist care, feeling it’s unnecessary or that it will limit their independence. Ahead, find how to effectively care for resistant seniors.
Don’t Wait for an Emergency
Seniors may not want to broach the subject of necessary care, but it’s better to begin the care process early, as it ensures there are plans in place in the event of a health emergency. If you capitulate to your loved one’s resistance, the topic might stay buried until he or she has a legitimate health scare.
Try finding natural ways to address the subject. If your loved one mentions housework, it may be a good opportunity to ask if he or she has considered hiring someone to clean the house once a week. This suggestion would reduce your loved one’s workload without necessarily infringing upon his or her independence. This type of assistance is often more palatable to care-resistant seniors.
Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Edmonton, AB, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
Place the Burden on Yourself
Many aging adults resist care because of their independent spirits. They want to remain in charge of their lives, and they think accepting help undermines their freedom. However, they’re still parents with an urge to protect their children from harm. When adult children tell their parents they’re worried about their wellbeing, parents are more likely to accept help. If you try this tactic, emphasize your personal fears rather than your parent’s care needs. If you frame it as your problem, your parent may be persuaded to solve this problem by accepting help.
Senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Don’t Expect Logic to Prevail
Don’t try to argue with your loved one. For most seniors, care resistance is motivated by fear rather than logic. To persuade your loved one, don’t offer well-reasoned arguments. Instead, try to address the emotions underlying the resistance. If you can determine the specific reason behind the refusal—whether it’s fear of losing independence or uncertainty about having a stranger in the house—you may be able to offer a solution.
Approach with Empathy
When seniors are no longer able to take care of themselves, it can be a startling and unwelcome realization. Many care-resistant seniors know deep down they need help, but they also believe accepting help is tantamount to giving up. They’re not ready to give up their independence and self-determination. When seniors are in this frame of mind, any offer of assistance can appear patronizing or belittling, which is why caregivers should always lead with empathy and compassion. When broaching the subject of care, try to validate your loved one’s self-worth. Listen to your parent’s concerns, take his or her fears into consideration, and validate his or her feelings.
Many seniors are reluctant to accept help because they’re afraid of losing their independence, but there are a lot of options available that allow your loved one to remain independent while still getting the care he or she needs. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional at-home care. Edmonton families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. If your loved one needs professional care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (780) 490-7337 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.