Getting someone to admit that they no longer have the physical and mental ability to live independently can be challenging. Seniors who’ve spent decades making their own decisions and being in charge suddenly have to depend on others for the simplest of tasks, which can sometimes result in damage to their self-esteem.
Older adults are often in denial about their needs and deteriorating health, which is why they’re resistant to change and refuse help.
So how do you get your elderly loved ones to accept help?
1. Show Empathy
You may think your elderly loved ones are just being stubborn, but take a few seconds and put yourself in their shoes. Think about how it would feel to realize that you’re having trouble performing tasks that you used to do effortlessly every single day and now are unable to do.
Instead of telling your parents off and forcing them to do something they don’t want, let them know that you understand what they’re going through and that you are merely trying to look out for them.
Elderly people tend to be mistrustful at times, so you must convince them that you’re on their side.
2. Don’t Tell, Ask Them
One of the most common mistakes made by children of elderly parents is telling them what to do rather than asking. Remember, they are already skeptical of what you’re suggesting, and hence will probably be very reluctant to cooperate if they feel that you’re forcing them to do something they don’t want to.
Instead of telling them what they need to do, ask them how you can make things easier for them. Be firm about the fact they do need help and that things need to change to keep them safe and healthy.
3. Spend Time With Them
Your parents may feel like you’re only suggesting professional elderly care services because you don’t want the responsibility of looking after them. This could also make them feel like a burden, which is why they’re insisting that they are capable of doing things themselves.
Even after you hire professional help to care for your elderly loved ones, make it a point to spend time with them regularly to ensure they don’t feel neglected.
Keeping your aging parents emotionally happy is just as critical as making sure they’re physically healthy.
senOcare provides comprehensive elder care services at home across multiple cities including Delhi, Gurgaon, and Noida. You can choose from various care packages designed to provide assistance for senior citizens, or we can also customize a package that caters to your specific requirements. senOcare can also arrange a tele-consult for your parents and you with a doctor, so that you can ask questions and make informed decisions. We offer a range of services related to health and fitness, security and home maintenance, technology assistance, forms and filing, and more.
Call us today on+91 8800 003 046 or email us at [email protected].
We’ll be happy to help.
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