Home Care: How to Start the Conversation with Mom or Dad

Let’s talk about home care

Let’s face it; starting the conversation with Mom or Dad may not be easy. Care is often seen by families as a ‘taboo’ subject, laden with difficult decisions about when to do it, how to do it and who to involve.

At Interim HealthCare of Allentown, we're urging more families to have the all important care conversation sooner rather than later. Having the conversation earlier means loved ones can maintain their independence for longer and will be happier, healthier and safer in the long run.

If you have concerns about your loved one needing care, here are some tips on how to approach the conversation:

Think about timing and location

Choose a time when you and your loved ones are relaxed and in a comfortable environment. This will make it easier to listen to each other and establish how your loved ones are feeling.

It’s crucial in the beginning stages of the conversation that Mom and Dad feel in control and understood. If they are reluctant to talk, ask them to explain their expectations or agree to have another discussion at a later date. Your loved ones may need some time to think and process what you have said.

Plan what you want to say

Knowing what you need to discuss beforehand can focus the conversation on what’s important. Are your loved ones struggling to carry out daily tasks or keep on top of their medication schedules? Perhaps Mom is caring for Dad and could do with some well-earned respite to rest and recharge.

It is much easier to have a conversation when you’ve already had some time to think and aren’t facing an emergency or dealing with a loved one who is unable to fully understand what is happening.

Offer your support

Above all, your loved ones may be confused, scared and feeling overwhelmed. They will need reassurance that you will be there to help them every step of the way, so they can find the best care option for them.

Putting the conversation in a positive context will help reassure them that you have their best interests at heart: talk about how important they are to you and how much you want to support their journey into an enriched later life.

Educate yourself

Knowing what care options are available and having this information on hand will keep the conversation flowing and expose any concerns your loved ones may be having. It may help to involve other family members and friends, such as siblings and grandchildren, who will also be involved in their care.

At Interim HealthCare of Allentown we can provide:

Skilled Home Care: Skilled Home Care services from our trained caregivers and health professionals support and prolong independence. Interim HealthCare of Allentown offers a full spectrum of home-based health services that might be temporary (to assist during rehabilitation following surgery or an injury), or more long-term (to provide extensive daily care and support, or at-home therapy). Learn more

PSenior Care and Support: These services fill the gaps in whatever way each person needs, helping them lead a more empowered and enriched life at home. Whether your loved ones need assistance with their personal hygiene, eating, mobility or an extra pair of hands to keep up with housework, our friendly staff can offer them greater comfort and peace of mind. Learn more

“Where can I get additional support?”

A meeting with a professional, such as your Mom, or Dad’s doctor may be needed to ensure that everyone shares the same information and gets the resources they need. You may also want to contact your local health care provider to discuss your options.

At Interim HealthCare of Allentown, we can provide answers to any home care questions you may have or arrange a needs assessment at the home of your Mom or Dad.