As your parents begin to age, you may grow concerned about their safety at home. However, hiring a senior care provider could provide peace of mind. Discussing this life-changing decision with your loved one could prove difficult and overwhelming. Here are some tips for talking to your loved one about getting in-home care. 

4 Tips for Talking to Your Parents About Senior Care

1. Start Small

Help them recognize where they could use some help. If they have been eating a lot of frozen dinners lately, bring them a home-cooked meal and talk about how nice it is to have someone else prepare food. If they live in a two-story home, hire a cleaning service to maintain the upstairs. Once your parent gets used to these small changes, they will be more likely to consider in-home senior care. 

2. Get Their Opinion

Instead of telling your parents what they need, have discussions to learn their point of view. They may be closed off to a service you are considering, such as a full-time live-in caretaker, but open to a different idea, such as temporary care. Understanding a loved one’s fears and concerns about senior care will help you find the best solution. 

2. Be Transparent

Be honest and open about the entire process. Make decisions together and make sure your parent knows what to expect, such as the times the caretaker will arrive and what duties they'll perform. Make it clear to your loved one that they can change their mind at any point if they don't like the change.

4. Be Empathetic

Losing independence is difficult. Explain that senior care is a way to help your parent maintain their independence as much as possible. For example, a caretaker can still take them out for walks or help them run errands. Always take the opportunity to express your love for your parent so they feel supported throughout the experience. 

If you are considering senior care for your loved one, contact Central Illinois Care Services in Glen Carbon, IL. This home care agency employs a wide selection of caregivers who can help with everything from grocery shopping to 24-hour assistance. Visit their website to see their full list of services or call (618) 391-7138 to schedule a consultation with an in-home caregiver.