As seniors approach the end of life, they may make specific requests for how they want everything to be handled, which may include instructions for care, methods for handling their funerals, and ways to manage their estates after they pass. It can be difficult to balance your aging parent’s end-of-life wishes with practical concerns and other family members’ feelings on the subject. Here are a few ways to ensure you respect your parent’s end-of-life wishes in a sensitive and faithful manner.
Go Over the Wishes Together
It can be difficult to talk about this sensitive topic, and many seniors want to seal up instructions in an envelope and never address the matter again. However, it’s best to spend time talking about your parent’s end-of-life wishes in person. Having a frank discussion can help you clear up confusing wording and discuss which parts of the end-of-life wishes are most important to your parent.
Some seniors want to remain as independent as possible even during the last stages of life. Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading at-home care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.
Know What to Discuss
When you try to bring up end-of-life wishes with your parent, you may be surprised to find he or she hasn’t thought about the topic much, and it’s best to ask some questions so you don’t have to guess what your parent would prefer later on. Ask how your parent feels about topics like hospice care, life support, treatments, religious or cultural beliefs, and who should help him or her. Try to find out what will make your loved one feel as respected and comfortable as possible.
Older adults who want to live longer, healthier, and happier lives can benefit from professional in-home care. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide homecare services. Opelika families can turn to Home Care Assistance for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
Consult with Doctors & Lawyers
Everyone deserves to die with dignity and have their wishes met. Therefore, it’s important to talk to your parent’s doctors about his or her wishes and ask if the doctors have any cultural, religious, or medical reasons to not comply with your parent’s desires. It may also be helpful to talk with a lawyer and ensure a healthcare power of attorney and other legal documents are in place so you can carry out your parent’s wishes.
Focus on Your Parent’s Needs
Keep in mind you should never try to argue with your parent or convince him or her to change the wishes for your convenience or comfort. If you don’t agree with your parent’s end-of-life wishes, try to remain empathetic and focus on carrying out his or her plans. When encountering siblings or other family members who don’t agree, try to remind them this isn’t about you or your relationship with them. Instead, emphasize that the whole family needs to focus on what your parent wants.
Older adults living with serious health issues can benefit from professional in-home care. For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Opelika, AL, Home Care Assistance is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break. If you need professional home care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (334) 744-7100.