4 Major Tips for Aging Parents That Won’t Listen
When we were young, our parents or guardians required us to listen and follow their advice. But what happens when it is our turn to take care of them but they refuse to listen to us? Aging is scaring. Most of the time, seniors fear the unknown, including the shrinking of their social world, loss of independence, and their health. All these factors may cause our aging parents to become stubborn and unwilling to follow our advice.
Learning why your aging parents are stubborn or refuse help is essential in approaching any discussion with empathy and respect. It is necessary to understand that your parents are in a different stage of life and also have other struggles. Below are some tips for aging parents who won't listen.
Assess Your Parent's Situation
Before taking any action, it is vital to evaluate your parent's lifestyle and their health condition. Most older parents have dementia, including anxiety and depression. Therefore, before suggesting care options to them, you should first check their mental health. Also, determine the tasks they can still execute without any help and how they think of themselves or what matters to them most.
Evaluating your aging parents' living and health conditions will help you understand what they need and what motivates them. This also allows you to have a more direct and engaging conversation with them.
Accept the Situation
Accept that your parents are aging, and they might be fighting the battles that come with old age. Even if it is not an easy thing to watch your guardian struggle or face hardship, you should understand that this is not your fault and that you are trying your best to help them. They are also capable of controlling their life and have a right to make decisions. Accepting this will help reduce your stress and improve your communication with them.
Focus on the Positives
When talking with your aging guardians, put more emphasis on the positive things. Avoid discussing the things they cannot manage but focus on what is relevant to them and their values. If you are planning to hire a caregiver, discuss the advantages of having a helper. Assure them that having a caregiver will not limit their independence but rather will provide companionship.
Provide Them With Options
Sharing the care options you have in mind with your parents is essential. It makes them feel that they are not limited to making choices, and their views are respected. Ensure to discuss all the key areas where you think they require assistance and explain the cons or pros of each option.
Enlist Professionals
If you try all the above options and you are still facing a deadlock with your aging guardians, it would be a good idea to seek help from experts. Some professionals who can help in this matter include a geriatric care manager, a religious figure, support coordinator, a friend, a neighbor, or a physician.
At Senior Helpers, we have been providing in-home throughout Erie, PA for over 12 years. We offer a wide range of services tailored to giving daily assistance to seniors with in-depth specialized care for those with chronic diseases. We truly understand the challenges that come with aging, and our goal is to ensure that your loved one is happy, safe, and cared for. Contact us today to learn more about our services.