Today’s caring minute focuses on how to cope with the older family member who won’t accept in-home help.
Families hire home care to provide respite and quality care for seniors, but what is a caregiver to do when their loved one refuses to cooperate? It is crucial for the family and hired caregivers to determine the underlying reason for a senior’s lack of cooperation and find ways to remedy the situation. Fear is the foundation for much of a senior’s reluctance. The presence of an outsider may suggest that their family can’t (or doesn’t want to) take care of their needs. This fear can make an older person feel very vulnerable. People of all ages dread the idea of losing independence. If a family member has a sound mind, emphasize that home care enables them to continue living safely in their own home. Help them evaluate home mobility products like grab bars and home stair lifts.
The right caregiver will pick up on this strong desire to be self-sufficient and provide assistance in ways that allow the senior to retain as much control as possible. Trust issues and fear of strangers can trigger anxiety in some seniors. If the senior is capable, they should participate in the hiring process. A sense of involvement and the ability to have a say in these decisions can reduce apprehension. Dementia itself can contribute to fear. Introducing potential caregivers beforehand to see how both parties get along is a valuable step. A dementia patient’s mood and capabilities fluctuate from day to day so keep this in mind when trying to help a loved one warm up to someone new. Assure your loved one that you are still the primary caregiver, but explain that you need help. Emphasize that the professional caregiver is there to assist both of you and that you are closely monitoring the process and their well-being.
This Caring minute has been brought to you by APG Eldercare Services, improving quality of life with dignity and respect . Call us at 610-392-0667 or visit our website at www.apgeldercare.com
