As your parents get older, the question of how to care for your ageing parents quickly comes to mind. At LDK, we understand that families want to make sure their loved ones live comfortably and have some autonomy or independence in their later stages in life.
Approaching this conversation can be challenging for everyone. You want to show your loved one that you care by offering the best service and treatment that caters to their needs. If you’re unsure how to go about navigating the conversation, we’ve taken the time to provide you with a thorough step-by-step guide to discussing aged care with parents.
As your parents enter their golden years, the question of how to take care of ageing parents should not fall solely on you to answer. A conversation with your parent will help you both understand their needs and wishes to find a suitable solution. You can navigate this conversation by taking the following steps with your loved one:
Before diving into aged care, take the time to understand your parent’s current health condition, daily living challenges and emotional state. By understanding their needs and concerns, you can ensure you’re ticking all boxes when it comes to finding an appropriate aged care solution that adheres to their lifestyle and values.
Explore the various aged care options with your loved one so they feel like they have control of their next steps and feel a part of the process. After all, how to care for your ageing parents shouldn’t just be up to you. It’s a decision they must feel comfortable with as well. From in-home care to assisted living communities or respite services, informing your parent of available options will allow you to explore the right fit.
At LDK, our Seniors’ Living® Villages provide a solution from independent, retirement living options through to aged care with our Aspire Aged Care services, our genuine alternative to a nursing home.
Residents who are young at heart have an abundance of activities to enjoy, from pampering themselves in the hair and beauty salon to wellness classes, boarding the village bus for outings, having a drink or two with friends and much more. They can furnish their new home with prized mementos, stay with their significant other, bring a pet and choose the level of care that suits their needs.
For those who require some level of support, our villages offer an environment where our staff create a holistic health plan to provide the suitable level of care your parent needs — we refuse to take a one size fits all approach at LDK. We have a range of activities, programs and offerings that cater to a variety of interests and abilities to ensure your loved one can participate in the things that bring them joy. From exercise classes to gardening, arts and crafts and outings, we have something for everyone.
When discussing aged care with parents, ask open-ended questions and allow them the space to share their thoughts and feelings comfortably. Be a compassionate listener and validate their emotions, even if they express fear or resistance to aged care. You should approach the conversation with empathy. Take a moment to acknowledge what it would be like in their shoes — how would you feel going through this transition?
Once you and your loved one have explored the available aged care options and listened to their input, jointly decide on the most suitable option. Consider their proximity to family and medical facilities and the level of care required.
The transition to aged care can be emotionally challenging for you and your parent. If you’re wondering how to take care of ageing parents during this time, the best thing you can do is offer them unconditional support and understanding. Let them know you’ll be there every step of the way and that their feelings are valid. Help them adjust to their living arrangements and maintain regular communication to address any concerns.
Approaching the topic of how to care for your ageing parents can be difficult. At LDK, we understand that every aged care journey is different. That’s why we take the time to get to know your loved one and ensure they receive the appropriate level of care to suit their needs. If you believe you’ve found the right fit with LDK or would like to learn more, read our FAQs page or contact our team, who would be delighted to assist.