One of the many difficulties of caring for our loved ones is communication problems. You’re not the only one who struggles with what to do when our loved ones deny assistance: According to a survey conducted by Penn State University researchers, a staggering 77% of adult children say their parents are obstinate about following their advice or asking for assistance with daily duties. Fortunately, there is yet hope for the future.
The article explores things to do when seniors refuse help.
Understand their Motivations
The process of getting older is challenging for almost everyone. Many of our loved ones suffer from dementia or mental health conditions including anxiety and sadness. You may interact with your loved ones more effectively if you learn how to convey their need for assistance while taking into account their feelings.
It can also be helpful to understand how important your parents’ independence is to them. Asking yourself important questions regarding your parents’ actions will help. You can decide the best course of action for making constructive adjustments by figuring out the underlying causes of your parents’ actions.
- Do they consistently behave in this manner?
- Do they fear regaining their independence?
- Do they experience anxiety or depression?
- Do they have dementia or are they just confused?
- What would they be frightened of?
Accept the Situation
Despite the fact that you have your parents’ best interests in mind, they have the ability to decide how they want to live and who will take care of them. Parents have the legal authority to make judgments, even bad ones, because they are adults.
Perhaps though it’s difficult, accepting this reality might help you feel less stressed and even make your connection with your parents better.
Choose Your Battles
Real or imagined nagging has a negative effect on people’s responses. In the long run, it might be advantageous for you to stop requiring your parents to update their phones, sign up for a fitness class, or perform other advantageous but optional actions.
Instead, prioritize the concerns you’ve determined to be most crucial, at least at first. For instance, issues regarding your parents’ safety should come first.
But keep in mind that, regardless of how legitimate your worries may be, they’re much more likely to be taken seriously if you don’t overburden them with them.
Include Them in Future Plans
Making future plans with our loved ones may inspire them to receive the care they require. Even if your parent does not have dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, any form of memory loss can be very challenging for our loved ones to deal with or even admit. Everyone’s worry is reduced when you help our loved ones remember crucial dates.
Is there a forthcoming family event they would like to attend, such as an anniversary, graduation, or wedding? Tell them about it and make plans together.
Treat Them Like Adults
While it may feel like you and your parents have exchanged roles at times, aiding your parents who refuse help is simpler when you recognize and appreciate them.
You should avoid infantilizing your parents. Dealing with an obstinate parent is not the same as dealing with an obstinate child.
Remember this while supporting your parents who refuse help: Above all, the aim is to help your parents receive the finest care possible.
