During the holidays, many of us spend more quality time with family. We may also start to notice changes in our aging relatives. Is Dad moving more slowly? Is Mom’s memory changing? It’s a good time to talk with older loved ones about their health, finances and living situations. This can be difficult, but living well depends on planning ahead.
“Managing emotions can be the hardest part of talking about aging. But the sooner families start, the better.”
April Craft, LMHC, CEAP – Clinical Director, EAP Operations
Why holiday gatherings are the right time
About 70% of adults over 65 will need some form of long-term care in their lives. Yet fewer than half of families have talked about what that looks like. The holidays bring families together, making it an ideal moment to check in.
- How are aging loved ones managing day-to-day tasks?
- Do they feel lonely or isolated?
- Have they thought about future financial, medical or emotional needs?
The key to these conversations is to listen. Aging relatives may fear losing independence or being a burden. Start the conversation by sharing any concerns with compassion. Say things like, “I know preparing our family meal is a lot. How can I make things easier?” This can lead to bigger discussions about health, financial planning and living arrangements.
In-home care
Today, 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. are caregivers. The number of family caregivers providing help to older adults has risen in recent years. At the same time, nearly 60% of adults over 65 worry they don’t have enough money to cover future health care costs. This can leave families without choices when health declines.
Most older adults prefer to age at home. More families are trying in-home care to help lower feelings of loneliness, fall risk and hospital visits. Assist your loved one in talking with their health plan to see if in-home care is an option. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) can also connect you with additional elder care resources.
Starting now matters
Managing emotions can be the hardest part of talking about aging. But the sooner families start, the better. This holiday season can be the time you move toward better well-being for your family.
April Craft, LMHC, CEAP is clinical director of EAP operations at Lucet.
