Improve Communication with your Caregiver

Emma is planning to return home from hospital, but her family are concerned about her welfare. To alleviate concerns and ensure Emma’s safety and comfort, they are working with the Right at Home RightTransitions^®, an elder care program designed to make the transition from hospital to home a simple process. The following tips are ways that can help families to communicate effectively with home caregivers:

• Realise you are both working towards the same goal. Viewing the caregiver relationship as a committed and unified partnership will benefit everyone involved in providing excellent compassionate care.

• Show genuine interest in your caregiver. Ask your caregiver how she or he is doing; ask about his or her family and interests and hobbies. In essence, take time to engage in conversation to make a connection and form a friendly relationship. .  

• Be clear and specific. Don’t assume that others are aware and understand what you or your loved one needs. If it helps, write down concerns and read them to your caregiver.

• Feel free to ask questions. Be sure to ask for explanations on any medical terms or treatments that you do not understand. Enquire about the care plan for your loved one and how you can help in the care process.

• Take time to listen. When possible, sit down with your caregiver and instead of rushing through a list of topics to discuss, take a moment to ask a question or two. Listen to what your caregiver is really saying in response. 

• Collaborate on best care options. With your caregiver, walk through the progress of you loved ones’ treatments and the next steps for care.  

• Try to be patient. Watching someone you love deal with the difficulties associated with age or illness can try the emotions. Be patient with your loved one, your caregiver and yourself. 

• Turn off the mobile, television and other distractions and engage in conversation.  Whenever appropriate, use humor and laughter to relieve tension and enjoy spending time together.  

We all know that nobody is perfect at talking and listening and we hope these tips go some way to helping improve family-caregiver relationships. Better caregiving starts with better communication. You and your elderly loved one deserve both.

What family-caregiver communication tips have worked for you?