How To Convince Your Older Parent To Slow Down

How To Convince Your Older Parent To Slow Down

It’s not always clear how to discuss the harsh topics of life with our loved ones. This is especially true as they get older. This is because the realities of ageing are not always pretty, but they can be cared for. However, discussing this with a parent who may be used to remaining as active as possible and relying on themselves can feel a little harsh, as if you’re taking their autonomy away by merely bringing up the topic.

This is hardly an uncommon familial topic to discuss. Ageing and its impact on daily functions have even been influencing the President of the United States. As you can see, this is a very human issue that many of us will one day face, in some form or another.

But how can you convince your loved one to slow down to unlock their best quality of life when the time comes? That might involve helping them a little more, relying on services, or using helpful institutions such as Lidder Care for the best outcome.

With that in mind, I look at how to convince your older parent to slow down in the best way:

Don’t Accuse, Insult Or Denigrate – How To Convince Your Older Parent To Slow Down

Sometimes it’s not what you say, but how you say it. Avoid using points that might make them feel old or incapable. Remember that this is likely a sensitive topic for them. They might be struggling with the changes they’re experiencing, and the last thing they need is to feel judged or criticised even if your intent is positive. Try to frame the conversation in terms of maintaining their independence and quality of life, rather than losing it.

Use Specific Examples

Use specific examples of how they may be slowing down a little. This can make it harder for them to dismiss your concerns outright. However, be careful not to overwhelm them with a long list of issues that make it seem like you’ve been plotting. Choose a few key examples that show your point clearly – such as you being worried their house isn’t quite as manageable for them without help.

Discuss The Benefits Of A New Approach – How To Convince Your Older Parent To Slow Down

It’s smart to paint a picture of how their life could improve by pacing themselves better or accepting some assistance you think is appropriate. For example, using a meal delivery or cleaning service could free up time and energy for hobbies or social activities. This way you show the real and potential gains rather than the losses, and you’re more likely to get a positive response from them. This way you show them how much better life could be, instead of giving them the impression you’re not willing to help out. If you reaffirm your support during all this, that can make the discussion more palatable. Just stay patient if you can. It might take a few talks.

With this advice, I hope you can better convince your older parent to slow down going forward, if that’s what they want and need.

Parents Looking After Parents

Parents Looking After Parents

Going through life, your parents are usually the ones there to help you. But as they get older, they start to require more care and attention. Eventually, it can become a full-time job when they move back in with you. Suddenly you are parents looking after parents.

If you’re feeling challenged by this situation, you’re not alone. It’s something that affects millions of people every year. However, it is also manageable once you know what to do. 

So, how do you look after your parents as a parent? Here’s what to do: 

Parents Looking After Parents: Start By Taking Them For A Check-Up

The first step is to find out what you’re up against. You want to know your parent’s requirements medically and the sort of assistance they are liable to demand. 

Doctors can provide you with an overview of their care requirements (which could be helpful when applying for funding). You can then use this information to make arrangements for them at home. Sometimes, you won’t need to change much, but other times, you’ll want to make significant home alterations. It all depends on their needs. 

Consider Their Mental Well-Being

While you’re investigating their physical health, it’s a good idea to provide them with a mental well-being check as well. These can help you find out how they’re getting on and whether they need more assistance in that department. 

If your parent has been isolated for a long time, then the likelihood of mental health problems is significantly higher. Doctors and mental health professionals can give them a check-over to see how they respond to questions and surveys designed to unearth problems (if they exist). 

Ensure You Have Everything They Need For Daily Living – Parents Looking After Parents

Next, you’ll want to check that you have everything your parent needs for daily living. Making sure they have the items they require in the home for bathing, dressing, and toileting is essential. 

For example, you might need a pill organiser if they are on a lot of medications. A commode in the bedroom could also be helpful if they need to get up in the night to go to the bathroom. Additional features like hoists and slip-proof shower flooring might also be important additions. 

Create A Routine

Once you finish with the home modifications, it’s essential to get your elderly loved one into a routine. Settling them requires doing the same things at the same time every day. 

Routines are important not just for you, but for your parent, too. Doing things at the same time creates a sense of comfort and predictability, helping to make every day the same. 

Parents Looking After Parents – Seek Support

Don’t think that you have to go it alone when taking care of your parents. Plugging into a nearby support group can give you the extra energy you need to manage a hectic and demanding family life. Other people in similar situations can provide advice and guidance, telling you what you need to do and how you can protect yourself. 

So there you have it: some of the ways you can care for an elderly parent relative while looking after yourself too.