Conversations about the end of your loved one’s life are not easy to have. If you and your loved one have been putting these talks off, it can be difficult to break through those barriers. Finding a way through can help you to have honest, open talks about important issues that affect both of you.

Listen for Openings and Questions from Your Loved One

One of the easiest ways to know that it’s time to have this conversation is for your loved one to bring it up herself. She might ask a question or make a statement that naturally leads to having a deeper conversation about the end of her life. You have to be alert for these openings because they can be subtle.

Ask Her if She Has Concerns or Worries about the Future

If your loved one isn’t bringing up the topic herself, you might be able to gently bring her into that area of conversation. Try asking her if there is anything that worries her about her future or her health. Sometimes this can help your loved one feel safe enough to talk about this with you. If you ask and she’s not interested, however, pushing the subject can make her shut down.

Talk with Her Doctor

Having a conversation with your loved one’s doctor can help you to understand the symptoms that your loved one is experiencing now and what she’s likely to experience in the near future. Your loved one’s doctor may have more information about your loved one’s concerns and fears, too.

Investigate Elder Care Options

Dealing with the sorts of issues that the end of your loved one’s life can bring up can take a lot out of both of you, both emotionally and physically. Looking into the possibility of hiring elder care providers can help you to manage your loved one’s care and your own emotions much more easily. Experienced end-of-life care providers know how to handle these delicate topics that can be tough for families to manage.

Let the conversation with your loved one flow as it will. If she doesn’t want to talk about the topic or the conversation feels too difficult, you may have to let it go.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering elder care in Bensalem, PA, please contact the caring staff at Serenity Hospice today. Call (215) 867-5405.