Bringing up the topic of long-term senior care can be difficult. To mom or dad, accepting this type of care may seem like giving up their independence. The topic is even more fraught if they have a mental illness.
- Choose a time when both of you are calm.
- Expect some form of resistance and don’t take any outbursts personally. Remember, they are also afraid of the unknown and any threats or emotional outbursts from your side will only add anxiety and even cause them to shut down communication.
- If you don’t succeed the first time, try again.