Home care services are one of the best elder care options available. It allows aging men and women the option of staying home, where they’re most likely comfortable. Most people, when asked, would admit they want to remain home the rest of their lives, if at all possible.
However, many families — including a spouse, adult children, and others — take it upon themselves to be primary caregivers. At least at first. Once you realize the value of in-home care, though, and the senior is on board with it, you may have difficulty letting go.
After all, you know this aging senior best. You know what they want, and what they need, and you’ve been supporting them for a while now. How do you learn to let go and allow the home care aide to lead?
Below are a few ways that could help you cope with this transition from being a primary family caregiver to allowing home care to be the option that’s best at this stage in the senior’s life.
First, learn everything you can about home care.
There are different types of elder care out there, but the most common and preferred is home care. It’s preferred because it allows aging men and women the option of staying home. This is where many have lived for many years, perhaps even decades or most of their life.
However, there are assumptions people have about in-home care and other senior care services. Don’t rely on assumptions but instead learn what you can about it.
A great way to learn more about elder care is to speak to the agency and aides directly. Have an interview process or schedule a time to sit down and talk to ask questions. If the senior is not able to be there, then respect their wishes as you ask questions and talk about options.
The more you learn, the easier it becomes to let go and allow them to lead because you will recognize the experience and dedication they bring to the table.
Second, remain in communication with the aides.
When the aide starts working with your elderly loved one, that doesn’t mean you have to step back and no longer check in. You don’t want to get in the habit of trying to tell the aide what they can or can’t do, should or shouldn’t do, and spying on them every day.
Instead, allow the aide to have your number if they have questions, check in with them from time to time, and make sure they don’t have any questions or concerns or anything you can answer. That opens the door to good communication. Good communication is key to helping you let go and allow the in-home care aide to lead.
Third, speak to the seniors about their needs.
Often, we see a need from a loved one who is struggling with their health or physical mobility and step in to assist. Or we limit what they can or can’t do. Instead, speak to them about their desires, wishes, and needs.
When you’re able to do that, it becomes easier to step back (a little) and trust the process of elder care support services.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Smyrna TN please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (615) 307-4509
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Nashville, Brentwood, Nolensville, Gallatin, Hendersonville, Smyrna, Murfreesboro, Mount Juliet, Lebanon, Goodlettsville, Davidson County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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