My Loved One is Refusing Care
April 5, 2017
The friend or family member you’re caring for may resist having a beneficial medical procedure, taking prescribed medications or hiring in-home help. If you are convinced that the disputed care is in your loved one’s best interest, certain approaches can help them see your point of view. It might help, for example, to include their physician in the discussion; or if the issue has become a power struggle between you and your loved one, it might be best to step aside completely.
Quick Tips:
- Plan a good time for discussion. You’ll want to bring the subject up when you are both feeling good and relaxed. Anything that can help everyone involved remain calm will be helpful.
- Focus on the positives. Point out that the care will make your job as a caregiver easier (if that’s the case). If they are resistant to hiring in-home help, you might stress that the assistance will allow them to live at home safely and longer. Include them in the interview process if possible.
- Don’t force it. If your loved one is healthy enough to make their own decisions, they have the right to refuse care. If they’re not cognitively able to do so and you have power of attorney, however, you are legally responsible for deciding what’s in their best interest
Laughter truly is the best medicine. Discover how caregivers can use humor to uplift seniors’ moods, ease pain, and improve emotional well-being.
Discover a meaningful approach to New Year’s resolutions for seniors, focusing on resolve, well-being, connection, growth, and daily purpose.
Discover how senior transportation services support independence, social connection, and better health while easing the load on family caregivers.
Help your loved ones enjoy their home longer by decluttering now. Create space, reduce stress, and make future downsizing easier with family support.
Hydration is essential for seniors’ health. Learn the benefits of staying hydrated, signs of dehydration, and easy tips for tracking daily water intake.
Learn practical tips for creating a safe, supportive home and improving communication while caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Limited mobility doesn't mean no movement! Discover safe, effective exercises seniors can do with a caregiver to boost mood, strength, and overall well-being.
Social interaction is vital for seniors’ health. Learn how companion care helps reduce loneliness, boost well-being, and support independence at home.
Caregiver stress is real—learn how to manage it! Discover practical tips to reduce stress, build resilience, and find support while caring for your loved one.
Learn practical tips to prevent falls at home, from exercises and home safety upgrades to medical alert devices and professional support from HomeAides.