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Difficult Conversations
Talking to Your Parents About Aging
Figuring out how to sensitively approach someone who is encountering age-related declines is , hands down , one of the greatest challenges — and most important conversations — a person will face .
Before you begin , make sure you :
• Understand the areas in which your parents or loved ones may need assistance , for example , medical safety , activities of daily living , home safety , driving safety , and financial safety .
• Express to your loved ones that you are doing this because you care , and explain the various options and benefits of assistance .
• Practice active , empathetic listening techniques to be a more effective listener — ask open-ended questions , and give verbal affirmations such as “ I understand ,” “ I see ,” or “ Sure .” A little patience and understanding can go a long way when trying to discuss the challenging issues a parent is facing .
• Focus on solutions and compromises , but be clear about the limits of what you can continue providing . Suggest “ trying out ” someone to help with cleaning or transportation and share how caregiving is affecting your ability to manage your family and life . Many parents are surprised to learn the stress that caregiving may be causing their children .
• Learn about available resources to be able to offer a customized care plan to meet your loved ones ’ needs . Visit askhva . org or your Area Agency on Aging for local providers and options , or speak with their physicians .
• Are clear about what you can do if your parents need continued assistance , and especially more medical or physical support . They may assume you will take them into your home . In many cases , this is simply not an option . Talking with them and their physicians may help them understand the limits of aging in place following an injury or significant physical or cognitive decline .
Are you ready to talk to an expert ? An Erie leader in aging for 25 years , Springhill has helped families navigate the conversation successfully — with loving care .
Visit springhillerie . org or call 814.310.0285 to get the help you and your aging parent need .
Proud to welcome Aaron Praetzel , NHA , MBA , a longstanding member of the Erie aging services community , as our new executive director !
Asbury Springhill • 2323 Edinboro Road • Erie , PA 16509 • SpringhillErie . org
MILLCREEK ❘ SPRING 2023 37