How to Start the Conversation About Home Care

Discussing home care with a parent or partner can be daunting and leave you unsure of how to approach the topic. It's not unusual for people to postpone seeking assistance, and raising the issue might even encounter resistance.

However, having the discussion earlier and getting support in place sooner can extends years of independent living, and improve wellbeing and life at home.

 In this article, we provide some practical tips to help you approach the subject with greater clarity – and prepared with useful facts in hand!

1. Try to understand what’s behind the delay

People often enter the home care system during a health crisis, as a result of having delayed seeking care in the first place. For most, a health crisis is the first trigger to take seriously, the need for accepting help at home.

Facing the realities of ageing or declining health can be a factor, while some may wish to avoid causing worry to family by being too open and honest about struggles. Optimism bias and concerns about the financial implications of needing care can also influence someone's reluctance to seek help. By first understanding the reasons, you can better determine how to approach the conversation.

2. Focus on their concerns first, not you

When someone is coming to terms with changes in health and capabilities, accepting the situation can be difficult. Therefore, beginning with what they do recognise as becoming more challenging or where they might need assistance is a good way to initiate the conversation. This approach can help you establish basic support systems and allow them time to get accustomed to home care services—whether it's just domestic help or gardening, for instance. Once the process is underway, it may become easier to expand the discussion.

3. Explain the facts about home care

The reality of the Australian Home Care system is that it takes a long time to get funding in place. From the time of applying for an assessment through to being approved and finally having your funds released, it can easily take 12 months (and longer!).

By sharing this information, it can be a low-pressure way to suggest you’d like to start the process before there’s any serious health issues or concerns. 

4. Share the possibilities and benefits of home care

Many people are  amazed by the adaptability of Home Care Packages and the extensive range of supports and options available to improve life at home. Beyond the usual services like personal care and domestic assistance, packages can cover home and bathroom modifications, or provide technology such as tablets or smart home devices to help stay connected to loved ones.

Some people use their packages for lifestyle activities, like transportation to social events to reduce loneliness and improve emotional wellbeing. Others choose to invest in meal preparation or companion gardening to rekindle a lifelong hobby with a bit of extra help. Allied health therapies, including physiotherapy or massage, can also be part of the package, along with many other services, such as respite care for carers who need additional support.

5. Call in help from trusted professionals

Sometimes it can be easier for a person to talk with a trusted health professional, rather than directly with a family member. If someone is particularly resistant to having the conversation, consider connecting with your family GP or other trusted health provider to raise your concerns.

They may be able to help discuss things more openly with your family member, and suggest looking into support at home. This can be particularly successful with GPs and health professionals that have had a long relationship with your family.

6. Help them feel in control

A common concern about getting home care services is the fear of losing control. However, the Support At Home program is consumer-driven, allowing you to select your preferred Home Care Provider, and work together to build your care plan.

Home Care planning is done in partnership with your Care Partner, enabling clients to choose the services they require, focusing on what is most important to enhance life at home. Gaining an understanding of how home care works can reduce worries about losing independence while also highlighting its advantages.

7. Keep the conversation ongoing

Bringing up home care doesn't need to be a single conversation. Instead, think about having an ongoing dialogue over time as it is more likely to create a positive result. Revisit the subject over time and share examples of others who have benefited from home care if possible, and emphasise the  improved quality of life that effective support can offer. By keeping the discussion active, you're more likely to find opportunities where they feel at ease participating in the conversation.