While some seniors experience good mental and physical health late in life, that’s not the case for many people. Often, seniors experience declines in health that require a heightened level of care for many years.
And so, whether a loved one is receiving care with an at-home provider or through assisted living in Tallahassee, the time may come for the family to make tough care decisions. Here are a few tips on how to navigate the situation.
Have a Plan
It’s not always possible, but it’s always better to have a plan in place before tough decisions come along. For example, when an elderly loved one receives a chronic diagnosis like dementia, you can work with your doctor to understand what dementia care looks like and plan accordingly.
Having a plan in place ensures that family members are not left to make a split decision when unfamiliar situations arise. This allows families to work together and seek help from professionals to formulate a plan. Doctors and caregivers are good resources to lean on as you are making decisions in advance.
Actively Involve Your Elderly Loved One
When it comes to making tough care decisions, it’s important to consider the wishes of your elderly loved one. They may not always be in a position to make the decisions for themselves, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be consulted.
Have a conversation with your loved one so that they know what is at stake and understand all the options available. Their input can make your decision easier.
Consult Professional Advice
If you are making tough care decisions for the first time, you may feel uncertain and overwhelmed. Therefore, it’s important to seek advice from a professional to help inform your decision. A healthcare professional or caregiver can walk you through the options and help you understand the long-term implications of each choice.
Professionals have experience that can be invaluable in helping you understand your decision. They’ve seen families in your situation make similar decisions and can tell you how those have played out long-term. Professionals can’t make the decision for you, but their advice can be helpful as you weigh your options.
Don’t Make Decisions Alone
Making tough care decisions for an elderly loved one can feel like an isolating time, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s important to consult family members to get different points of view before you make your decision.
Even if you feel you know what is best, talking it through with trusted allies can help you feel confident in your decision. In addition, when family members are part of decisions, it tends to put everyone at ease when facing the future.
Educate Yourself
Some family members tend to make tough care decisions based on gut instinct. While this is an important factor to consider, you should educate yourself as much as possible about the implications of your choices.
Do research on how your decision will impact your family, finances, and most importantly, your loved one. Some care options can be good short-term solutions but may have negative impacts down the road, and vice versa. You should be completely informed before making tough decisions.
Care for Elderly Loved Ones in Assisted Living in Tallahassee
Whether to transition an elderly loved one to assisted or independent living in Tallahassee, Florida, is a significant care decision family members have to make. Assisted living can be a great option for seniors who need extra support in their day-to-day lives.
Making tough care decisions for elderly loved ones is no easy task. With a bit of research and help from family and professionals, you can be confident in your decisions.
