Discussing Difficult Topics
With Your Aging Family Member

 

No one likes to talk about death. And no one likes to admit that the physical body can't last forever. But, the reality is that people do die and family members are left to deal with unresolved issues. Without pre-planning, this can be a real burden. So, how do you bring up the subject with your aging family member?

Then there is the topic of independence. As a caregiver, you may notice a change in your family member's ability to do daily tasks. Maybe their driving is erratic or unsafe. Maybe they need help with yard work or making meals. All of us love our independence and guard it fiercely. How do you talk to your aging family member about these changes and their effect on safety and the ability to live independently at home? How do you talk about issues without causing hurt feelings or family rifts?

Making important decisions during a crisis situation is not the best choice. Yet, many children of aging parents find themselves in this situation when an older relative suddenly needs help. It is best to plan ahead and discuss important topics with older family members. If you don't know where to start or you don't know how to approach your older relatives, there is help.

Start by becoming educated on likely topic areas such as driving, retirement planning, housing, long-term care, organ donation, funeral plans, etc. By knowing about the topic, you will be better equipped to handle these sometimes difficult discussions. Then, learn about techniques to help you bring up these subjects and divert resistance to the discussion.

To follow are online resources to help you start needed conversations with your aging family member:

 

With conversation techniques and knowledge of the issues and local services and resources, discussion of these topics with your aging relative may be much easier and less stressful.

 

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