Talking to a parent or partner about home care can feel challenging and have you wondering how to tackle it. It’s common that people delay seeking help and bringing it up may be even be met with resistance.
However, having the discussion earlier and getting support in place sooner can extends years of independent living, and improve wellbeing and life at home.
In this article, we provide some practical tips to help you approach the subject with greater clarity – and prepared with useful facts in hand!
1. Understand what’s behind delays in seeking care
The most likely time for someone to enter the home care system is at a time of health crisis, as many delay seeking support for fear of a loss of independence. Confronting the reality of ageing or declining health may be a contributing factor while others may want to avoid worrying family or feeling like burden.
Optimism bias can play a part, and so too can concerns about the financial realities of needing care. By understanding why someone may want to avoid the topic, it can help you get clearer about how to approach the discussion.
2. Focus on what’s bothering them, not you
As someone comes to terms with changes in health and capabilities, it can be hard to face reality. So, starting with what they can acknowledge they are finding more challenging or may need help with, is a great way to get things moving. It may allow for you to get simple supports in place and give them time to become familiar with home care services – even if it’s just domestic support or gardening, for example. With the ball rolling, you may find it easier to open up to a wider conversation.
3. Start with the facts about home care
The reality of the Australian Home Care system is that it takes a long time to get funding in place. From the time of applying for an assessment through to being approved and finally having your funds released, it can easily take 12 months (and longer!).
By sharing this information, it can be a low-pressure way to suggest you’d like to start the process before there’s any serious health issues or concerns.
4. Explain the possibilities and benefit of home care
Many people are surprised by the flexibility of Home Care Packages, and the huge range of supports and options available to improve life at home.
Beyond traditional supports like personal care and domestic assistance, packages can fund home and bathroom modifications for improved mobility, or technology like tablets or smart home devices to help clients stay connected with loved ones. Others use their packages for lifestyle activities, such as transport to social outings for better mental and emotional well-being.
Others invest in meal preparation or companion gardening to get back to a life-long hobby with a little extra help on hand. Allied health therapies like physiotherapy or massage can also be included, and much more, including respite services for carers that need extra help too.
5. Bring in the support of trusted professionals
Sometimes it can be easier to talk to a trusted health professional, rather than directly with a family member. If you find someone is particularly resistant to having the conversation, consider connecting with their health providers to raise your concerns.
They may be able to help discuss things more openly with your family member, and suggest looking into support at home. This can be particularly successful with GPs and health professionals that have had a long relationship with your family.
6. Emphasise autonomy and control
One of the biggest fears about starting home care is the perception of losing control. However, funding for Support At Home is a consumer-led program, meaning you choose which Home Care Provider to work with.
Home Care planning is also done in collaboration with your Care Partner – with clients choosing the services they need, focussed on what matters most to them to improve life at home. Understanding how home care works can help address fears of losing autonomy while also clarifying the benefits of home care.
7. Keep the conversation ongoing
Bringing up home care doesn’t have to be a one-time discussion. In fact, creating an open dialogue over time can lead to better outcomes. Revisit the conversation occasionally and use examples from others who have benefited from home care to inspire confidence.
Share stories about neighbours, friends, or even articles you’ve come across that highlight the independence and quality of life that good support can bring. By keeping the topic on the table, you’re more likely to find moments where they feel comfortable engaging in the conversation.
