The most successful care plans for aging parents are created through teamwork. If your family works together, all aspects of your parents’ care needs are met. It may not be easy at first. Differing opinions can cause disagreements on who should be doing what. You have to work together and cover these topics, especially when it comes to the care of your senior and the elder care services they receive.
Have an Open Discussion
It’s time to talk about your parents’ care needs. You need to have an open discussion without anyone getting frustrated or arguing. You may notice things that your brother doesn’t realize are happening. If he gets upset, remember it’s likely that he’s worried about your parents getting older. That stress can have him reacting negatively.
Be prepared for differences of opinion. Don’t accuse or argue with people who disagree with you. Rationally discuss it and move on to the next topic.
Care is Meant to Be Shared
One sibling shouldn’t have to shoulder the brunt of your parents’ care unless they want to. It has to be a shared responsibility. It would help if you didn’t base decisions on who is the oldest or has the lowest-paying job and can afford to quit.
You have to consider the person’s emotional and physical health before choosing a primary caregiver. You also have to stop and think about a person’s interest in being the main caregiver. If there’s no interest, other arrangements must be made. It’s unfair to push someone into a role they’re not comfortable taking.
To avoid this, you need to divvy up chores. Pair the help that’s offered with each family member’s strengths. Your brother is a chef all week and said he’s happy to do the meal prep each Monday. Your sister is a bookkeeper and offered to take care of financial matters. Let them fill in those areas, and you can focus on other chores.
Hold Regular Family Meetings
Hold family meetings regularly to see how everything is going. It’s a time to discuss any issues that are occurring as others step in to help your parents. If your parents are unhappy with the care plan, they need to give their input, too.
At this time, adjust schedules if necessary. End the meeting with a family dinner that you’ve all helped cook. This eases the stress from your mom or dad, who may feel obligated to prepare a big meal for everyone.
Time to Call for Elder Care Services
Work together to come up with a list of questions and to develop a care plan for your parents. Once you have those drawn up, call our elder care specialist. You’ll learn more about the elder care services and prices in your parents’ area.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Elder Care Services in Newton MA, or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, please call the caring staff at CARE Resolutions – (508) 906-5572.
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