As people age, their bodies become more vulnerable. When this comes, families may try to make the approaching end more comfortable for their loved one nearing the end of their lives. But there are instances that may inhibit our loved ones from taking care of themselves and us. In times like these, clinicians and therapists could help families take care of a family member better.
Through home care services, families can hire professionals to assist their loved ones who need more help than expected. Since such patients require more help than usual, home care professionals can aid in fulfilling their needs. Hopefully, it can help families have a peaceful dynamic within a home.
Plan Ahead
Most have an idea of where life will take them. Use that to your advantage. Planning ahead ensures there is as much help as needed when the time comes. Studies from the Conversation Project showed that 90% of people believe that talking about end-of-life care is important, but only 27% of them do so. Regardless, death will come. No one knows exactly when it might, but we can prepare for it.
Planning ahead should include the person who will need the care. The family should secure an advanced directive from the family member about their healthcare wishes. However, if the family member can’t speak for themselves, seeking medical power of attorney might be necessary.
Communicate with the Family
Families are complex. In talking about a family member who is terminally ill, many issues could arise. When families are separated by distance or have different ideas about the care they envision for their loved ones, these issues can intensify.
Communication is really important to decide on the necessary steps. Everyone should actively listen, respect, and set expectations among themselves. The best way to talk to everyone is to have them in the same room. However, if this seems impossible to do, have the further members in a call while the meeting happens to make them feel included in the conversation. People want to be heard, so stay open to what others have to say.
Honor the Family Member
Keep in mind that this is happening because it is meant to happen. It is not about you or anyone else in your family. However, in the process, try to honor what your aging family member needs. The journey is about them, not you. Everyone gets to do this once, so allow them to do it the way they want. At this point, agreeing to disagree might be the right thing to do.
Seek Assistance
Taking care of a dying loved one can be overwhelming for everyone in the family. As much as you would like to help, it is also important to take care of your mental health. Home care help from clinicians and therapists can improve everyone’s well-being. They do not also take responsibility for you but can also provide the support you might need.
Hospice social workers help manage the stress families face while caring for someone who’s terminally ill. They are trained to understand that families going through this are sensitive and might need help too. Remember that you are not alone, as these people are here to help.
Conclusion
Going through the finish line can be scary or stressful. However, it can be a way to bring the family closer. There is nothing we can do but accept that it will happen to us and the people we love. But remember that you are not alone, and there is help waiting for you if you need it.
Bridge Home Health & Hospice offers home care services for people in California nearing end-of-life. We value operational effectiveness, clinical excellence, employee engagement, love, and fun in helping families and patients in need. All this comes together through our vision of helping people live their best life. Contact us today to discuss what we can do to help you and your family.
