Are you spending more time assisting your parents or loved ones when you visit, rather than being a friend, daughter or son? Knowing how and when to start the conversation about in-home care services can be difficult.
However, introducing these discussions gradually and suggesting options earlier can help reassure your loved ones they can continue to live independently, safely and happily at home.
Here are some tips that may help you start these conversations:
- Introduce the discussion gradually.
Talk to your parent or loved one about receiving in-home care in advance before a medical issue arises. You may have to wait for up to 12+ months plus to be approved and assigned in-home care funding. - Talk about possible options that may be of interest.
Try not to overwhelm your parent or loved one with too much information.
Start with small and straightforward suggestions to build awareness about home care options. - Understand what services and resources are available.
Explore suitable care options and resources on the Care Connect website.
Proactively discuss their lifestyle and routine with Care Connect, so you have an understanding of how aged care services can help. - Refer to parts of their day that may not be as easy as they used to be.
Introduce your aged care at home ideas gradually and try to refer back to any challenges your loved ones have flagged in earlier discussions. - Care is available for day-to-day activities and tasks which become increasingly challenging, supporting them to continue what they enjoy.
The experienced and friendly staff at Care Connect can help guide you through the process without obligation or cost.
You may also like to check out this forum on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings, hosted by Raph Epstein The Care Squeeze: how to have the aged care conversation with your loved ones
Our friendly team is also always here to help make life easier. You can call the team on 1800 692 464 or via our contact form here.