Your loved one's neighbors, friends, other family members, co-workers, physicians, nurses, therapists, and social workers are good sources of information. Of course, the most important information source is your loved one. It's important to tell your loved one tactfully that a change is needed to protect his or her own safety and peace of mind, and perhaps the safety of others. The more you can base your concern on facts, the more likely you are to solve the problem. Another way to gather information is to contact your local Area Agency on Aging or a geriatric case manager, who can conduct an informal assessment of your loved one's ability to function independently.
Most experts recommend discussing potential solutions in a family meeting.
The most important member of the meeting is the older person. Helps you think of possible solutions that may not have been considered. Provides an objective look at the amount of time and resources family members actually can provide. Increases family members' level of commitment to helping the plan succeed if they've agreed on it together. A family meeting may not be practical because of distance or urgency, or because no family exists other than you and the older adult.