“So parents, you are getting older now…”

I said, as I sat them down slowly. “Well guys…” I started. “Your body’s are starting to change.. and mature…” (A line a lot of us have endured once before.) “However, instead of the horrid pub this time, we are opening the door to a discussion about entering early stages of being part of the elderly community.” I pause for gasp and pearls to be clutched. “There are concerns about safety,” I quickly insert before there first reaction of “betrayal” have begun.

I work closely with the elderly and disabled, focussing on transition independent to semi-dependant living. When working with families to create a health care plan for the client, it is important to consider a few things I see make transitions smoother in a broad spectrum, with the understanding all cases are different and based on the individual.

As our parents age and our roles slowly reverse.

1. Approach and communication is essential . Create a team and be transparent early on. Approach is key.Inclusion and communication are essential at all stages

2. Introductions are essential for building trust, so don’t waste the opportunity. I see agencies miss the mark by leaving their new caregivers unprepared about their clients and then are told they want someone who is “A better fit, and can communicate”.

Explore options and pivot; Get curious about options, after all you may be in their spot one day…how would you want to be treated?

Acknowledge change and what you can and cant control

Set new goals based on the triumphs and results

One should be so lucky to make it this far no matter the stage.