Five Ways to Start Elder Care When Your Senior Resists

Five Ways to Start Elder Care When Your Senior Resists
Some aging adults find that the idea of accepting help for themselves, particularly from a stranger, just rubs them the wrong way. Here's what you can do if you've determined you need to hire elder care providers but your senior just isn't on board.

Start out Slowly

If you're trying to bring elder care providers in for several hours at a time, several days a week, your senior is most likely going to balk at this. These people, while there to help, are not a part of her regular daily routine and therefore are a disruption for her. You need to start out slowly and gradually work up to a schedule that gives you what you need.

Call it an Experiment

For aging adults who are the adventurous type, an experiment might be appealing. Try telling your elderly family member that you're testing something new and that she can help you to do so. Experiments usually have a definitive end, too, so this can also appeal to your senior.

Mention Her Doctor's Orders

Many aging adults only want to do what their doctor has recommended. This is great if you're trying to convince her to stick to her diet or to make other changes, but it can make other situations more complicated. Try mentioning that her doctor has recommended that she work with elder care providers. If she needs more, explain what's going on to her doctor and don't be surprised if he plays along.

Make it All about You

Your senior might not want help for herself, but odds are that she worries about everything that you're taking on as her caregiver. If you make elder care providers all about you, that might be far more positive as far as your senior is concerned. She may go along so that you get more help, which is ultimately what you need. 

Fib a Little

In some situations, you may find that you're fibbing or stretching the truth just a little bit. You might have a crisis of conscience over this, but sometimes it really can't be helped. Don't feel bad if you're not being entirely honest with your senior about your motivations for hiring elderly care providers.

If you can be patient with your aging adult, she might just come around to the idea of having home care providers around. Developing a relationship with specific elder care providers can make a huge difference, especially when you're interested in having companionship available for your loved one.

If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Salt Lake City, UT, contact the caring staff at Interim Healthcare. Call today 801-401-3515.

Author: Michael and Marlena Hawkins, Owners, Interim HealthCare, Salt Lake City, UT 

Interim HealthCare of Salt Lake City has been in business since February 2014, providing in-home personal care and support services that help our elderly and/or disabled neighbors live enriched, safe and independent lives. Our goal is to provide customized care and support services that make it possible for our clients to remain in the comfort of their own homes rather than relocate to an assisted living facility. Interim HealthCare is family owned by Michael and Marlana Hawkins, and is a Veteran Owned Small Business.

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