Tips for talking to your loved ones about aged care and the future
- Take the time to understand your loved one’s preferences as early as possible. This will be important if there is a sudden, life-changing event which will require decisions about care and future arrangements.
- Respectfully approach a discussion with them as a family (or friends), and speak to them as partners to understand how they see their future.
- Offer options rather than advise on how they see themselves living in their own home independently for as long as possible.
- You may want to discuss who will make financial and medical decision on their behalf should the need arise.
- A good way into the conversation can be to discuss the experience of a relative or a friend.
- Offer to help them find out more information or suggest they seek the views of someone they trust, such as their doctor or financial adviser.
- Choose a time and place that is appropriate for the conversation, somewhere they are comfortable.
- Remember, it is only the beginning of a conversation, one that will continue over time as you and your loved on gather information and establish what may be the next best step.
Conversation starters
- Home – When I get older I will want to stay in my own house for as long as possible. Have you thought about what you would like to do? I can get some information or perhaps you would like to talk to the GP about what options are available so that you can plan for the future.
- A parent living on their own – I’ m worried about you being on your own and managing the house all by yourself. Did you know that you can get some help with lots of things at home, such as taking out the rubbish bins, hanging up the washing, or looking after the garden? Would you like me to get some information and we can talk about it?
- Changes to aged care – Did you know that there have been a lot of changes in the way the government funds and organises aged care assistance at home? I’ve heard that there is a lot of choice and options these days. Would you like me to get some information for you?
- Help inside the home – I am worried if you are eating well and taking your medication properly. You can get help to organise those things. I think it may be worthwhile speaking to My Aged Care about what services you are eligible for.