Feeling worried about a loved one? We outline our top tips for approaching this sensitive subject.
- Put your concerns into perspective
Take a moment to consider the situation objectively. Note the differences in your loved one’s behaviour and acknowledge which things might be lower-level concerns (eg. not brushing their hair) and which might be high-level concerns (eg. not taking medication). All concerns are valid, but their seriousness may affect your next steps. You do need to act if someone is at immediate risk of harm.
- Try to understand how your loved one feels
Understanding how your loved one feels could help you begin a productive conversation with them. Use your knowledge of the person to try and answer these questions:
- Are they reluctant to ask for help?
- Do they feel unmotivated?
- Do they know how to make changes?
- Are they feeling depressed or burdensome?
- Decide if you’re the best person to intervene
It’s okay to ask for help. There may be someone else whose distance from the situation gives you all some healthy space. This could be a friend, family member, or professional.
- Have an open conversation
If you decide to initiate a conversation yourself, you need to do so sensitively. Instead of presenting your solutions, ask open questions and listen to the answers you receive. Allow your loved one to be the focus and agree on small steps together. Give yourself time, and be prepared to carry on the conversation later.
Here at Abacus Care & Support, we want to be here for you and your loved one at all stages of your care journey. Our homecare options could be the perfect solution. Get in touch or explore the site to discover more about our homecare in Letchworth, Stevenage, Hitchin and further afield.*
For more advice when it comes to worrying about someone, click here for Age UK’s comprehensive guide, which has been the primary source and inspiration for this article.
*Abacus Care & Support has operations in London and Hertfordshire, having grown from a local family business that started in Letchworth. We are particularly keen to continue to grow our presence and impact in North Hertfordshire, including via our Stevenage, Hitchin and Letchworth care services
For information about Abacus Care & Supports’ domiciliary care (Home Care) services please call us on 07934498020/ 02071001680, or email us at enquiries@abacuscaresupport.co.uk.