How to have a conversation about aged care.

Transitioning into aged care is a significant milestone in the lives of older Australians. It’s a positive step that ensures they receive the care and support they need to live comfortably and safely. It’s also a difficult and often emotional conversation to have, and if handled improperly can make the process more painful than it needs to be.

When talking about aged care, we can experience mix of emotions – from apprehension and sadness to guilt. This article provides you with a guide to broaching this sensitive subject gently and productively, so your loved ones feel heard and respected rather than upset or overwhelmed.

Starting a conversation about aged care with elderly relatives can feel daunting, but with the right approach, it can be fruitful and sensitive. Here are three pieces of advice to guide you:

1. Choose the right time and place

Moving into aged care can be an intimidating and stressful prospect. To make the conversation easier, try to make sure your family are comfortable and relaxed, and – ideally – have enough time to genuinely consider their options. This will help them to focus on their needs and make informed, levelheaded decisions about their future.

2. Be empathetic & patient

To have an open and honest dialogue with someone about aged care, it’s crucial that you acknowledge their feelings, concerns and fears. Even if you’re worried about their wellbeing if left to their own devices, your family members may feel differently about their prospects outside of aged care. This is a big change, and it’s natural to have mixed emotions about it. You need to support them through this, and that starts by understanding exactly how they feel about the change.

3. Involve them in the decisionmaking process

Moving into aged care is a significant milestone, and it’s crucial that your family members be given as much control over their aged care arrangements as possible. Involve them in the decision-making process at every available opportunity and work with them to find a solution that they’re happy and comfortable with. Encourage them to voice their preferences and concerns. This can help them feel more in control and less anxious about the transition.

How to choose an aged care provider

When considering aged care options, it’s important to ask the right questions. The following are key questions to ask aged care providers, as suggested by the Australian government’s My Aged Care resource:

How will you provide the care and support services my family need?
What training do the care staff have?
How do you manage clinical care needs, such as taking medication or wound care?
How many staff provide overnight care?
Do you help with medical appointments?
How big are your rooms? Can they be personalised with things from home?
How do you cater for special dietary requirements like allergies, cultural foods, etc.?
What sort of social activities do you provide? Do you organise outings?
How do you ensure the safety and security of the residents? What measures do you have in place for emergencies?

This conversation is unlikely to be resolved in one sitting. It’s a process that requires ongoing dialogue, understanding and support. But with these strategies, you can help your loved ones to navigate this transition with dignity and confidence.

Remember, your goal should be to make sure your loved ones are safe, comfortable and happy in their later years.

Talk to us.

If you’re planning to transition to aged care or help family members to do so, we’re here to help. Over the years, our team has helped many Australians navigate these difficult conversations. Talk to your our Aged-Care specialist financial advisers about how to put in place the right plans for you and your family.

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