Senior Spotlight: Tips For The Tough Talks
Caregiving conversations are not easy, but the right approach can make them easier.
If aging was easy – we would all look forward to it a lot more, right? This week, we are sharing an important topic from AARP: family caregiving conversations. Based on the perspective of a longtime family caregiver, this recent article reveals a few ways to keep the discussion positive & effective.
We have summarized the top 5 tips below – but we encourage you to read ‘5 Tips for Difficult Family Caregiving Conversations’ in full as well.
#1: Avoid Crisis Conversations. AARP advises talking early and often to avoid guessing a loved ones wishes or facing surprises in the event of a sudden health or lifestyle event.
#2: Analyze Problems & Solutions. It’s easy to make some basic assumptions about what our loved ones are struggling with, but it’s even more important to watch and observe to identify the most pressing challenges and concerns. Once you have firmly identified some needs, checking into some potential solutions and alternatives is an ideal next step.
#3: Focus On Best Quality of Life. It’s not just about how you approach – but why you approach. If you enter into a caregiving conversation with love, concern and support – you are much more likely to be heard. It’s easy for a loved one to feel defensive so always start with respect and compassion; avoid statements that would make a parent or grandparent feel incapable or unheard.
#4: Use A Conversation Starter. Refer to an article you read, a friend you spoke to or ask for input on a related topic. The intention is not to talk around the topic but to broach it in a way that is relevant and reflective rather than accusatory and overly assertive.
#5: Make Key Invites. AARP believes that having “the right people at the table can make all the difference.” Key family members, the loved one’s trusted financial advisor, a good friend… anyone who is on the same page with offering support, understanding and expertise (or someone who is willing to find it!).
If you will be having a caregiving conversation in the near future, we extend our heartfelt acknowledgement that it will not be easy, but we know you will create the best approach and outcome for your family situation. If you are already a family caregiver, we admire you more than you know! Thank you.
Warmest regards,
Bobbi Decker
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Broker Associate
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www.bobbidecker.com
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