Communicating with an elderly family member who may be resistant to care can be challenging. Our caregivers are experienced and trained to navigate effective communication with respect and delicacy. Here are some strategies to enhance communication and build trust and understanding:
1. Put Yourself in Their Shoes: Practice patience and compassion by listening to your loved ones' sharings, and try to understand why and where the resistance comes from. They are usually fear of loss of independence and integrity. Express your empathy and find the middle ground that would make them feel the most comfortable.
2. Consulting not Commanding: Be gentle with your elderly loved ones. They become more sensitive and worried as they age. Change your tone from giving orders to giving genuine advice. Show them that you have their best interest at heart and you believe that in-home care services will improve their lives for years to come.
3. Ask Questions and Set Consequences: Ask questions to understand their preferences, fears, and desires regarding their care. Clearly communicate the scenarios and consequences, and slowly help them self realize what care they need in their daily lives and how having a caregiver will mitigate all the risks and put away all their current difficulties.
4. Use Respectful Language: It is not what we say, it is how we say it. Choices of words make a significant difference in a conversation. For instance, say, "I am concerned about your safety when you're alone at home," rather than, "You can't stay at home by yourself anymore."
5. Involve a professional: Sometimes past disputes make it difficult to have a smooth conversation between family members without any arguments. You can contact Assisting Hands Home Care for a free in-home consultation in which our experienced caregivers sit down with you and your elderly loved ones to communicate, understand your seniors' care requirements, and deliver what our services can do with utmost respect and compassion.