How to Communicate With an Elderly Parent

When it comes to communicating with elderly parents, your concern likely lies in discussing important issues, such as finances, living arrangements and health care. These are sensitive topics, especially for a generation that more than likely grew up in a household that didn't openly discuss these things. Consider a few suggestions for sensitively and effectively communicating with elderly parents.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Have a game plan. Know exactly what you hope to achieve from the conversation and stay focused on that, rather than using this time to delve into other topics "while you're at it." Your parent(s) may become overwhelmed and shut down if pushed too far or asked to discuss too many issues at once.
2. Be frank. This isn't to say you shouldn't be respectful and sensitive. The idea is to be honest rather than sugar coating things. If you truly want your parent's opinion on a matter, then be responsive and open to what they have to say.
3. Keep the group small. Limit the number of people involved in the conversation to the bare minimum to prevent overwhelming your parent(s) or making them feel ganged up on.
4. Remind your parent(s) that their best interest is always of utmost importance and that no decisions are made without their final approval.
5. Visit or talk often. If you only show up to discuss heavy topics, your parent(s) may become defensive or feel dispensable.
6. Speak slowly and give them time to process the information. Don't expect them to make big decisions on the spot (assuming this is possible), but be clear regarding a day or time by when a decision must be made. Be sure not to dominate the conversation, giving them plenty of opportunities to voice their opinion. Listen genuinely.
7. End on a good note. Be sure to leave the conversation on happy terms so no one has hard feelings that may be regretted later on.