Home Care - How to Start the Conversation with Mom or Dad

Let’s Talk Home Health Care

Let’s face it; starting the conversation with Mom or Dad may not be easy. Care is often seen by families as a ‘taboo’ subject, laden with difficult decisions about when to do it, how to do it, and who to involve.

At Interim HealthCare of the Twin Cities, we're urging more families to have the all important care conversation sooner rather than later. Having the conversation earlier means loved ones can maintain their independence for longer and will be happier, healthier and safer in the long run.

If you have concerns about your loved one needing care, here are some tips on how to approach the conversation:

Think About Timing and Location

It’s important to choose a time when you and your loved ones are relaxed and in a comfortable environment. This will make it easier to listen to each other and establish how your loved ones are feeling.

In the beginning stages of the conversation, it’s crucial that Mom and Dad feel in control and understood. If they are reluctant to talk, ask them to explain their expectations or agree to have another discussion at a later date. Your loved ones may need some time to think and process what you have said.

Come Prepared

Knowing what you need to discuss beforehand can focus the conversation on what’s important. Are your loved ones learning to use an at-home medical device to manage chronic pain or chronic diseases? Perhaps they need at-home therapies to help them recover from surgery.

It is much easier to have a conversation when you’ve already had some time to think and aren’t facing an emergency or dealing with a loved one who is unable to fully comprehend what is happening.

Offer Your Support

Above all, your loved ones may be confused, scared and feeling overwhelmed. They will need reassurance that you will be there to help them every step of the way, so they can find the best care option for them.

Putting the conversation in a positive context will help reassure them that you have their best interests at heart: talk about how important they are to you and how much you want to support their journey into an enriched later life.

Educate Yourself

Educate Yourself
Knowing what care options are available and having this information on hand will keep the conversation flowing and expose any concerns your loved ones may be having. It may help to involve other family members and friends, such as siblings and grandchildren, who will also be involved in their care.

At Interim HealthCare of the Twin Cities we can provide:

Home Health Services: Home health services from our trained caregivers and health professionals support and prolong independence. Interim HealthCare of the Twin Cities offers a full spectrum of health care services that might be temporary (to assist during rehabilitation following surgery or an injury), or more long-term (to provide extensive daily care and support) From wound care, to skilled nursing and at-home therapies - we’ve got you covered.

Hospice Care: Hospice brings together medical and non-medical caregivers as needed to serve patients with life-limiting illnesses, usually within the final six months of life. Hospice care does not hasten death — instead, the goal is to manage pain and other symptoms to make patients comfortable, so they can live every remaining moment to the fullest.

“Where can I get additional support?”

A meeting with a professional, such as your Mom, or Dad’s doctor may be needed to ensure that everyone shares the same information and gets the resources they need. You may also want to contact your local health care provider to discuss your options.

At Interim HealthCare of the Twin Cities, we can provide answers to any home care questions you may have or arrange a needs assessment at the home of your Mom or Dad.