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Dogs - Man's Best Friend
Dogs have been known as man's best friend for decades. Owning a dog can be a positive, enjoyable experience for the entire family. Keep in mind however, that the decision to own a dog is an important one that should not be taken lightly. A dog...
Long Term Health Care Options
As you grow older, housing may pose more and more of a concern, especially if your health is failing. If you are worried that you may not be able to take care of your basic needs as you age, such as cleaning, cooking, bathing and maintenance, then...
Powered Suits as Walking Aids
Now, persons that are disabled and impaired could say good bye to awkward crutches and cumbersome wheelchairs! Powered suits are now coming in style. There are teams of researchers particularly in Japan are developing “powered suits” that can...
Top 10 Tips For Traveling By Air With An Elderly Parent
This article gives ten ways to help achieve a safe and joyful air travel experience with your elderly parent. This is based on personal experience with my own 89-year-old mother.
After having some rather stressful trips with my 89-year-old...
Valentine's Day Ideas for Couples and Singles
Who expresses more love and has more fun on Valentine's Day, couples or singles? I've rounded up some fun ideas to help each group realize the spirit of this holiday.
Who do you think expresses more love and has more fun on Valentine's Day,...
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HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: START THAT CONVERSATION
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: START THAT CONVERSATION
Word count: 339
Annie waited too long to have that talk with her parents. It was too late to have it now as they were both beyond comprehending the seriousness of their situation. As a result, she had to break the bad news to a long lost brother, and deal with her resistant parents who had convinced themselves that they were independent in their own home, while she had to make some very difficult decisions for them.
It’s never too soon to begin the discussion of aging. But if you have put it off, ease into that conversation as soon as the first, what may seem minor event occurs which indicate a loved one’s independence may be in jeopardy. Since it is difficult to begin such a talk, here are some suggestions which may help:
-use another family’s situation or news story as an example or starting point.
-cut out an article or an ad as a reference point.
-ask questions at a family gathering, but keep it light.
-plan a family meeting with the agenda known by all beforehand.
Starting the conversation with “I” statements ensure that you will not sound accusatory
and lets your feelings come through. For example:
-I am worried…
-I feel…
-I am concerned…
-I have noticed…
Engage in a conversation, taking turns, instead of talking at others. Use questions:
-What things concern you?
-What do you want to do about…
-What do you want to do when…
Conveying love and concern is important. Sometimes an outside person can have more influence than those in the immediate family. Be patient. If the first attempt doesn’t go well, keep your sense of humor and try again at a later time.
Linda LaPointe, MRA is an ElderLife Matters Coach who was a long term care administrator. She is the author of several products to help families, including the educational board game, In My Shoes: An Aging Family. See them and get free articles and information at www.SOSpueblo.com
About the Author
Linda LaPointe, MRA is an ElderLife Matters Coach who was a long term care administrator. She is the author of several products to help families, including the educational board game, In My Shoes: An Aging Family. See them and get free articles and information at www.SOSpueblo.com
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