Accepting help from others is no easy feat.
Because it takes putting aside pride and pulling up a side of vulnerability.
But even more than that, accepting help from others means realizing you need help in the first place. As humans, we naturally want to do things ourselves. We’re built with strong senses of self-protection and self-perseverance. Which makes us think we can do everything alone. And that to rely on someone else is a sign of weakness.
When it comes to aging and homecare, the same is true for seniors. It’s hard for them to accept help because they still believe they can do it all themselves. Their human natures grind at their minds telling them not show signs of weakness, that they are strong and independent.
This can be difficult for families of seniors. Because, at a certain point, seniors do need help. And, as a close relative, you can’t give them everything they need without taking away from your own life.
So, what is there to do?
Here are 4 ways to help seniors accept the help they need, for a better way of living.
Have a relaxed discussion
At the end of the day, it all comes down to open communication. Create a calm and warm atmosphere, where you and your senior talk comfortably. Bring up the topic of home care and home assistance, but do so positively and gently. Never lose patience. And always stay calm, no matter what turn the conversation takes.
Truthful doesn’t mean hurtful
When you’re having the “big talk” with your senior, it’s extremely important to say everything that’s on your mind. People often confuse the truth for something that hurts. But it doesn’t have to be so.
It all depends on how you say what you say.
If you want to have a productive conversation with no regrets later on, you’ve got to make sure to hit all the points that are troubling or worrying you. And as long as you do it kindly, choosing the right words, you should be able to get across what you’re feeling and thinking effectively.
Don’t just talk- listen
Conversations aren’t just one way. Yes, you’ve got to say what you’re thinking. But, you also have to be conscious About what your senior is saying as well. When they respond with arguments, hear them out. What they’re saying matters. And what they’re feeling matters more.
If you want to break through to your parents, you need to understand where they’re coming from. Which means, you need to really listen to what their arguments are. And only then, can you respond effectively and reassuringly.
Show don’t tell
Sometimes the best way to make someone accept a new idea, is to show them what it is. It’s easy to get misconstrued thoughts about something when we’ve never seen it for ourselves.
That’s why one of the most successful ways to acclimate seniors to the idea of accepting help is to give them as much information as possible. And, show them pictures. By doing so, you allow your senior to visualize themselves in a world where they can accept help and still lead a strong, happy life.
