The Mayo Clinic Staff published an article “Caring for the Elderly: Dealing with Resistance”. In this article really great advice is given in how to start communicating with your aging loved one about his or her need for care and how to get him or her to accept help such as:
- Determine what help is needed. Make an honest assessment of what kind of help your loved one needs and which services might work best.
- Choose a time when you and your loved one are relaxed. This will make it easier for you and your loved one to listen to each other and speak your minds.
- Ask about your loved one’s preferences. Does your loved one have a preference about which family member or what type of service provides care? While you might not be able to meet all of your loved one’s wishes, it’s important to take them into consideration. If your loved one has trouble understanding you, simplify your explanations and the decisions you expect him or her to make.
- Enlist the help of family members. Family and friends might be able to help you persuade your loved one to accept help.
- Don’t give up. If your loved one doesn’t want to discuss the topic the first time you bring it up, try again later.