Helping Your Loved One Make Difficult Senior Health Decisions — Premier

It's not always easy to talk about the care we'll need as seniors, especially with our younger-than-us kids and grandkids. If you are fortunate enough to be a caregiver to an elderly loved one, it can be challenging to know how to broach the subject or what kind of medical care is best.

REALIZING WHEN IT'S TIME TO RECEIVE CARE

If you're caring for a loved one or friend who is aging, it is essential to recognize when to receive care. Whether that means moving into a senior living facility or accepting long-term care from family members, making the decision can be difficult. You want your loved one to feel as comfortable as possible during this transition. You may want them to feel as if they are maintaining their independence, but the truth is that you're taking on the burden of caring for them. However, there are many ways that you can make this experience as easy on them as possible. How will you know when it's time? If your loved one has been showing signs of decline in physical health, such as decreased mobility or memory loss, they may need help. They may also have expressed a desire to move out of their home and live with someone else while still having their independence. These are all signs that your loved one may need long-term care.

FINDING A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER YOU CAN TRUST

Knowing how to pick a healthcare provider is an essential part of living well as you age. You want to be sure that your caregivers are people you can trust and that they know your medical history and preferences. The key to making the right choice is taking your time and doing your homework. Treat it like you're hiring someone for a new job. You might want to ask friends and family if they can recommend a doctor knowledgeable about your loved one's specific situation, or look for doctors on websites such as HealthGrades.com or Vitals.com, which allow people to rate doctors' clinical skills and bedside manner. You might also want to check with local senior centers, social service agencies, or other community resources that could offer advice on elder care providers in your area.

COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR DOCTOR OR CARE TEAM

When it comes to senior healthcare, you will face difficult decisions. However, these decisions are often more accessible than you may think. It is essential that you have a good relationship with your doctor and trust that they will give you the best information available. If there are any changes to your condition, let your doctor know. If a medication isn't working, or if you have any new side effects, speak up immediately. This way, you can work together to find a solution quickly and avoid any severe problems. If your doctor recommends surgery or other treatment, ask questions about the procedure and its risks and benefits. Don't be afraid to ask for additional information regarding the surgery or how it generally works. If you ever feel unsure about a medical decision, don't hesitate to ask for another opinion from a different healthcare provider to get assurance.

DISCUSSING YOUR OPTIONS WITH FAMILY MEMBERS

Making difficult senior health decisions can be a complicated and emotional process. However, it is essential to remember that this process is not about you. It's about the person receiving care. Especially when someone is suffering from a disease or disorder, the last thing they need to worry about is feeling pressured or rushed into a decision by their loved ones.

TIP: Before you sit down with family members to start the discussion, it may be helpful to write down your thoughts so they are organized. You may want to make a list of questions you want them to answer and some possible questions they may have for you.

DECIDE IF AN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY IS SUITABLE FOR YOUR FAMILY MEMBER

Deciding whether a family member needs to move into an assisted living facility is not something you take lightly. It can be one of the most difficult decisions families have to make. You want the best for your loved ones, but you also want them to feel like they're at home in a safe and comfortable place. Remember to talk openly about their concerns and yours as well. Senior living communities can be intimidating for seniors who live independently in their own homes. They may worry about losing their independence, getting sick, or being lonely. These are valid concerns and ones you should talk about with your loved one before moving to an assisted living facility. Your loved one probably has questions too — "What will my room look like?" "Will I get my own bathroom?" "How do I go grocery shopping if I don't drive anymore?" Discussing these concerns beforehand can help alleviate anxiety and answer questions they might have once they've moved in. Check out the community first. Before moving your loved one into a senior housing community, visit to see if it's right for them and your family. The right place will have the right amenities and feel like home, while the wrong place could leave everyone feeling uncomfortable or unhappy.

MAKING THAT FIRST CALL CAN BE THE HARDEST STEP

The most important thing seniors and their family members can do is start early by identifying and getting familiar with the senior's medical documents and health care providers. Stay involved in their healthcare and living situation, communicate effectively with all the health care providers, get organized, and involve your elderly loved one as much as possible. Taking these steps now will help you better support your family member to live well during their retirement years and have peace of mind along the way.