Elder Care Lawyer Belgrade, MT
Belgrade, MT elder care lawyers know that caring for an aging family member can be challenging, especially if the loved one is resistant to help. Understanding why your loved one refuses help and knowing how you can encourage cooperation can relieve much of the concerns and burden you are carrying. Indeed, resistance to care is one of the toughest challenges people are faced with when caring for seniors. So, how do you help a loved one who doesn’t want any help? A better understanding of resistance to care may help you to develop strategies for fostering cooperation. In some cases, when your loved one is no longer able to care for themselves, you may need to consider Silverman Law Office, PLLC, an elder care lawyer Belgrade, MT locals recommend that you can rely on.
What is My Loved One Resistant to Care?
If your beloved family member requires care, he or she is likely dealing with some kind of loss, such as:
- Loss of physical ability
- Mental and memory impairment
- Loss of a spouse
- Loss of independence
For seniors, accepting help may mean giving up their privacy and adjusting to new and unfamiliar routines. Our Belgrade, Montana elder care lawyers know that as a result, an aging adult might feel vulnerable or frightened that he or she can no longer function without help, or guilty when thinking of becoming a burden to friends and family.
In some cases, seniors can merely be stubborn. Or, they may have mental health issues. Or they may think it’s a sign of weakness to allow and accept help from others for things they once could do for themselves. Seniors may also worry about the cost of certain types of care. Furthermore, memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, or dementia may make it difficult for them to understand why they need help. It’s important to be aware that if you believe that your loved one has lost their capacity, you should consult with our Belgrade, MT elder care lawyer for guidance.
How Do I Approach My Family Member About the Need for Care?
In some circumstances, doctors or elder care lawyers in Belgrade, MT will discuss care needs with your loved one. If you are starting the conversation yourself and suspect that the senior adult will be resistant to care (whether from family, friends, other close contacts, or a service), consider these suggestions:
- Determine what kind of help is needed. Assess what type of assistance the aging adult needs and which services best serve those needs.
- Choose a time to discuss it when you and your loved one are both relaxed. Our Belgrade, MT elder care lawyers share that this will make it easier for both of you to listen to each other and speak what’s on your mind.
- Ask your aging parent about his or her preferences. Your loved one may have a preference for which family members or what kind of service provides care, so be sure to address this. You might not be able to comply with all of your loved one’s wishes. However, our elder care lawyer serving Belgrade, MT stresses how crucial it is for them to feel considered and heard. If your loved one has communication issues or trouble understanding you, simplify your explanations, and clearly define the decisions you expect him or her to make.
- Don’t give up. If your aging adult family member doesn’t want to discuss the topic the first time you broach it, try again at another time.
If your family member continues to resist care and puts him or herself in danger, enlist the help of a legal professional at Silverman Law Office, PLLC. An aging loved one may be more willing to heed the advice of someone other than you. Contact our Belgrade, MT elder care lawyer to discuss your options and learn how we can help you and your family during this difficult time.