Family conversation Guide
A step-by-step resource for families
Helping a loved one accept support at home is deeply emotional and challenging for families. At AgeWell Care, we understand these conversations are often filled with worry, guilt, and hope.
Here’s how to approach the topic so your parent feels
respected, understood, and cared for.
Prepare Yourself
Emotionally
Acknowledge your complicated feelings like fear, guilt, uncertainty, and your deep desire to help. Remember, asking for support is never failing your parent. It helps ensure their long-term safety, happiness, and comfort, while also giving you needed peace of mind.
Choose the Right Time
and Setting
Find a peaceful, distraction-free moment when emotions aren’t running high. Avoid discussing care needs in the middle of arguments or crises. Gently let your parent know this is a loving conversation, not a confrontation, and that you want teamwork.
Express Empathy, Not
Ultimatums
Use caring, supportive words. You might say:“I worry because I care about you so much.”“I want you to feel confident and stay healthy in your own home.” “Can we talk together about steps that might make daily life easier for both of us to manage?”
Use Real Scenarios,
Not Scare Tactics
Use caring, supportive words. You might say:“I worry because I care about you so much.”“I want you to feel confident and stay healthy in your own home.” “Can we talk together about steps that might make daily life easier for both of us to manage?”
Listen and Validate
Their Feelings
Allow space for your parent’s worry, resistance, or doubts. Validate their concerns gently: “This is a big change.” “Your privacy and comfort are most important—I want you to feel at ease always.”
Involve Them in
the Solution
Invite your loved one to make choices. Compare options together—agency versus private care, schedules, and needs. Ask if they’d like to meet a caregiver and help design a plan they feel comfortable with.
Take Small
Steps
Suggest a short-term trial or visit, making it easy to evaluate together. Present it as an experiment: “Would you be comfortable trying this for a week, just to see how it feels for you and us?”
Reassure and
Revisit
Emphasize your ongoing support and flexibility. Assure them you’ll check in often, that plans can change, and you’ll make adjustments as needed. “If you ever feel unhappy, we’ll find another solution together.”
How to talk to parents about Home Care
Our Family Conversation Guide includes gentle prompts, thoughtful scripts, and proven strategies to help you talk openly with your loved one about care.
