There are so many conversations in life that we really need to get prepared to have. These delicate conversations usually take place between parent and child, but they also occur between child and parent. As parents age, a role reversal occurs when the child becomes the caregiver and decision maker. Broaching difficult topics such as the possibility of moving into a nursing home or asking for extra help can create a sense of anxiety and hesitation, especially when the idea of a change is involved. There could be an inherent fear of refusal when presenting the topic of transitioning a loved one to a care facility, such as a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) center.

Planting the seeds slowly over time could avoid potential adverse reactions or an outright refusal to the idea. This gradual method paves the way in an unobtrusive manner, making the idea seem palatable. By the time you are ready to have a full conversation, exploring this option will not be unsettling or overwhelming. Making suggestions, dropping hints and asking questions to gauge perceptions creates an outline of the conversation in advance.

Positioning this message gently and little by little will be less threatening and easier to comprehend for your loved one. PACE programs are great for elderly people that need extra help, supervision or care throughout the day, but are still able to live independently on their own. This program offers the opportunity for socialization and clinical supervision with access to doctors and therapists on a regular basis, all in one place. PACE programs support families that are able to provide the majority of care at home, but are not able to provide adequate care and supervision during the day.

In other words, reiterate all the positive aspects of choosing a PACE center but conduct this conversation over time. If applicable, cite a success story of a known person that is attending a PACE program and use this positive example for reinforcement. When discussing the option of choosing a PACE program, make the information relatable and familiar; build a bridge from the known to what is available at the center. Relate familiar lifelong activities to opportunities that lay in the future.

Be gradual in the approach and highlight the positives while acknowledging the drawbacks if any are thought to exist. Lessen the impact of a potentially stressful situation by only providing little bits of information over a period of time. Having the discussion about enrolling in a PACE program does not have to be ominous or take place in an all-or-nothing one time conversation. Gradual discussions reiterating the positives will yield a more desirable outcome. When the main objective is safety and peace of mind, navigating this conversation correctly can make a difference for all involved.

To learn more about the PACE program, click here!