7 Steps to Having the 'Tough Talk' With Your Parents

Planning care for your aging parent is a time consuming, emotionally draining task. While there are many options for elder care, making the best choice is crucial. How much help do they need? Can they still drive? Is it safe for them to continue cooking, cleaning and grooming themselves? These are all questions that Oxford can help you to answer before having ‘the talk.’  In order to sustain a positive conversation leading to the best choice of assistance, starting the conversation early will lead to more beneficial outcomes.

It is pertinent to have in-depth conversations with your loved ones to fully understand their preferences, ensuring a smoother transition. Maintaining open communication and truly listening to their desires allows your loved one to continue to feel their independence. You achieve a positive dialogue with patience, kindness, understanding and problem-solving teamwork. We have outlined a step-by-step approach to analyzing your parents’ behavior and finding the perfect, personalized care routine for their comfort.

1)    Assess their behaviors (grooming, house cleaning, cooking, driving, etc.)

2)    Lightly brush the subject of their independence by referring to someone else you may know who now receives help

3)    Review their reactions to help guide your approach to the talk

4)    Research the available options in their community so that you can steer the conversation with facts, granting them the possibility to make the most educated decision, leading to a higher likelihood of happiness

5)    Have the conversation: start with light, fun topics to open their warmth and receptiveness to the difficult discussion. Always approach the options with a teamwork mindset, problem-solving together for the best solution.

6)    Allow time for your loved one to assess their options and needs

7)    Softly approach the conversation until a decision is made. If necessary, you may need to get the family doctor involved to decide on a solution.

Although the conversation is difficult for everyone involved, it is best to start early and hash out a plan for your loved one’s optimal future. At Oxford HealthCare, our knowledgeable staff can help guide you and your family each step of the way to ensure a comfortable future for your loved one with a personalized care plan. What are you waiting for? Spring forward with Oxford; let’s get the conversation started today.

9 Tips For Preventing Elderly Falls

“About one third of the elder population over the age of 65 falls each year, and the risk of falls increases proportionately with age. At 80 years, over half of seniors fall annually.”

Have you thought seriously about your loved one’s potential to fall? As they age, the threat becomes increasingly severe. Falls can often lead to furthered complications and health risks. 3Two-thirds of those who fall will do so again in within the next six months.”2 Do you know how to prevent falls as best as you can? Read our tips below to keep your mom or dad safe and happy in their own homes.

1. Minimize clutter

2. Put a night light in the hallway and the bathroom

3. Install a hand rail in the shower, or get a shower chair

4. Make sure all cords are tightly secured

5. Purchase an Emergency Alert system

6. Encourage weekly exercise and strength training (especially in the legs)

7. Practice getting up from possible fall scenarios

8. Get rid of loose rugs

9. Wear grip socks or slippers

“Falls contribute to over 40% of nursing home admissions and are the 7th leading cause of death in people aged 65 or older.”3 Keep your parents safe. Keep your parents out of a nursing home. Keep your parents comfortable in their own home. Call Oxford Healthcare today and receive a free home consultation to ensure their safety. (918)258-1111

1. http://www.learnnottofall.com/content/fall-facts/how-often.jsp

2. http://shellpoint.org/blog/2012/08/13/10-shocking-statistics-about-elderly-falls/

3. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/geriatrics/falls-in-the-elderly/falls-in-the-elderly

Pooling Family Resources Payment Plan

“63% (of baby boomers) do not plan to move” (Demand Institute, 2013). Have you considered how your parents want to age? Oxford HealthCare has a longstanding reputation for over 20 years compassionately caring for the elderly in the comforts of their own home. We offer outstanding services at comparable prices while providing peace of mind for the whole family. For instance, in a nursing home your loved one can have a private room with 2-3 hours of care per day; however, at the same price, he or she can stay in their own home with 12 hours of one-on-one care per day. You may be asking yourself, ‘how can we pay for Long Term Care Services?  We are here to walk you through the multitude of options.

We call our favorite method the ‘Pooling Family Resources’ payment plan. First, designate an organizer. This person often lives nearby and is available to help when needed. Second, a family meeting needs to take place where you will discuss a Plan of Care. Identify the gaps where help is needed and count on Oxford to close those gaps. Third, designate individual contributions, whether they be monetary or donation of time. Finally, you will have a comprehensive plan to keep your loved one safe in the comforts of their own home.

Long Term Care Insurance payment method is also an option if you have a “Home Care” rider.  Most plans do.  Typically you need prior approval with a physicians letter of medical necessity.  This letter will explain the limitations in performing Activities of Daily Living.  Oxford can help!  We can navigate through the challenges of dealing with insurance companies and bill the services on your behalf.

At Oxford HealthCare, we provide quality, one-on-one care in the comfort of your own home. We are the helping hand that ensures your independence when the going gets tough. Choose your meals. Choose your privacy. Choose your memories. Choose Oxford HealthCare.

Watch our informational Family Pooling Resources Video and other educational material:

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About Oxford HealthCareOxford HealthCare is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma and serves the surrounding areas with highest quality home care, caregiver respite, and assisted living services. Services include home care evaluation, medication management, errands, light housekeeping, personal care, assistance, respite care, care coordination, companionship and much more.